JAPANESE AMBASSADOR KATSUMATA
“ATATÜRK STUDIED JAPANESE IN HIS YOUTH.”
At a reception marking Japan Self-Defense Forces Day, Japan’s Ambassador to Türkiye, Takahiko Katsumata, said the world is now facing its most difficult security climate since World War II. In this context, he emphasized the lasting relevance of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s principle: “Peace at home, peace in the world.”
In a personal remark, Katsumata referred to Atatürk as the “Great Leader.”
“Atatürk is well known and deeply respected in Japan. We also know he studied Japanese in his youth. Beyond his historic role, he was also known for his closeness to the people,” he said.
A RECEPTION ROOTED IN FRIENDSHIP
The event was hosted at the Japanese Ambassador’s residence by Ambassador Katsumata and Defense Attaché Saito Naoki. Among the attendees were Türkiye’s Minister of National Defense, Yaşar Güler, and Land Forces Commander General Selçuk Bayraktaroğlu, along with many military officials and guests.
The reception opened with the national anthems of both countries. In his speech, Minister Güler highlighted the deep-rooted friendship between Türkiye and Japan.
“Despite the geographical distance, our ties have developed based on mutual respect and understanding,” he said.
He also recalled the Ertuğrul Frigate tragedy, describing it as a turning point that laid the foundation of a lasting friendship.
“Today, that friendship continues to grow through partnerships across many fields. It brings our people closer and contributes to the prosperity of both countries,” he added.
He noted that this year, the centennial of diplomatic ties between Türkiye and Japan, adds even greater meaning to that relationship.
A FRACTURED WORLD ORDER
Ambassador Katsumata spoke of Japan’s contribution to global peace through its self-defense forces.
“This year marks 80 years since the end of World War II. But unfortunately, we are now facing the most fragile global security and humanitarian landscape since then, with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and conflicts across the Middle East.”
“In these challenging times, Atatürk’s words — Peace at home, peace in the world — are more relevant than ever. They are not just ideals. They are a path forward that we must truly embrace.”
“WE DEEPLY ADMIRE ATATÜRK”
In his speech and a separate statement, Ambassador Katsumata spoke with admiration for Türkiye’s founding leader:
“Atatürk is widely recognized and admired in Japan. His leadership in saving Türkiye and founding the Republic has earned deep respect from the Japanese people.”
He noted that after the Republic was founded, Japan’s Emperor sent Prince Takamatsu to Türkiye on a friendship mission to meet Atatürk.
“This bond of friendship has continued ever since,” he said.
“We also know that Atatürk studied Japanese when he was young. He was not only a statesman of great vision but also someone who stayed close to his people. We admire him deeply and hold his legacy in great respect.”
