On November 2, about 80 high school students visiting Japan from member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to take part in the JENESYS Japan-ASEAN Sports (Rugby) x SDGs Exchange visited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and paid a courtesy call on Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Fujii Kazuhiro.
The Vice-Minister noted that Japan and ASEAN have cooperated for more than 50 years for the peace, stability, development and prosperity of the region. He also mentioned that next year marks the 50th anniversary of the Fukuda Doctrine, the three principles of Japan's Southeast Asia diplomacy announced in 1977 by then Prime Minister Fukuda Takeo, and said he wished to convey the resolve to keep building a peaceful and prosperous future as trusted partners connected heart to heart.
He also encouraged the participants to deepen their understanding of SDGs initiatives through rugby, to experience Japan in many ways, and to share their memories and impressions of Japan with many people, expressing hope that they will become bridges between Japan and their home countries. A participant from the Philippines, this year's ASEAN chair, spoke on behalf of the group, thanking everyone for the chance to visit Japan and experience SDGs initiatives through rugby, and sharing their enthusiasm for the future. The call ended warmly with a commemorative photo.
Key points
- About 80 ASEAN high school students are learning about SDGs initiatives through rugby
- Cooperation between Japan and ASEAN for over 50 years extends to exchanges among young people
- Participants are expected to become bridges between Japan and their countries
Why this news deserves attention
Exchanges that introduce the SDGs through sport can help people make friends across differences of country and language. High school students from across ASEAN learning and sharing experiences together may lay the foundation for future cooperation.
International cooperation grows not only through governments and experts but also through encounters among young people. Learning about youth exchange can also prompt us to think about our own international exchange.
Staff comments
Minato AobaResearch
“I found the angle of learning about the SDGs through rugby interesting. With about 80 high school students gathering across borders, I can feel how far youth exchange is spreading.”
Sophie HiroseWriting and translation
“I agree with Aoba-san about that fresh angle. With sport, hearts connect even when languages differ. I hope their experience here leads to bridges back in each of their home countries.”
Mako JozenjiProofreading and verification
“As you both say, learning by moving your body sounds memorable. Imagining the friendships formed here becoming a force that links ASEAN and Japan in the future makes me look forward to it.”
Editor-in-Chief’s comment
Ren DateEditor-in-Chief
“I found the combination of rugby and the SDGs refreshing, and learning while moving your body sounds wonderful. I look forward to imagining these students sharing their experiences in their hometowns after they return.
We will keep introducing news about international exchange. Why not look for an exchange opportunity near you?”