On Thursday, February 12, 2026, the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America hosted the annual Japan–Armenian Friendship Event, jointly organized by the Western Diocese and the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles.
With the participation of elected officials from local governments, dignitaries, community representatives, and guests, this much-anticipated gathering—now an established tradition—once again affirmed the strong bond between the peoples of Japan and Armenia and their respective communities in Los Angeles through cultural dialogue and shared heritage.
The program opened with welcoming remarks by Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese. In part, His Eminence stated:
“The partnership between the Western Diocese and the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles continues to mature in beautiful and life-giving ways. Each year adds new depth to a relationship rooted in trust, mutual regard, and a sincere desire to learn from one another. Today is another step forward in that ongoing journey.”
Expressing his appreciation to the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles, His Eminence concluded:
“Events such as this give visible expression to the values we hold in common. They invite us to encounter one another not as strangers, but as neighbors in a shared human story. In a world often marked by division, moments like these affirm that understanding and friendship remain both possible and necessary.”
Next, the newly appointed Consul General of Armenia in Los Angeles, Her Excellency Anna Avetisyan, addressed the audience. She reflected on the historic ties between the two nations, recalling the humanitarian efforts of Japanese philanthropist Eiichi Shibusawa and the enduring legacy of Diana Apcar, who helped lay the foundations for Armenian-Japanese relations.
His Excellency Mr. Kosei Murota, Consul General of Japan in Los Angeles, spoke about moments of solidarity between the two peoples, including the Armenian farmers who cared for the lands of their Japanese neighbors in Fresno during the World War II internments. He also referenced the Tokei Maru ship, which rescued Armenian and Greek refugees from Smyrna, highlighting Japan’s humanitarian legacy.
The program also featured an educational component. Dr. Anna Vardanyan, Founding President of the “Arumenia-Nippon” Armenian-Japanese Scientific & Cultural Union, shared a pre-recorded presentation on the story of the Tokei Maru, emphasizing the enduring power of humanitarianism in building cultural connections, promoting peace, and strengthening bilateral relations.
The cultural segment included performances by Japanese artists Saeko Kujiraoka (koto), Sakura Jimenez (koto), and Shiho Tendo (nihon buyo), as well as Armenian artists Hasmik Harutyunyan (vocal), Vardan Baghdasaryan (kamancha), and Armen Adamian (duduk), who presented Armenian folk music in its purest form.
The evening concluded with a festive reception featuring Armenian and Japanese cuisine, offering guests an opportunity to continue conversations, exchange experiences, and deepen friendships.
