Gilad Cohen, Israeli ambassador to Japan (Courtesy of the Embassy of Israel)
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After nearly five years as Israel's ambassador to Japan, Gilad Cohen is concluding his diplomatic posting.
In the following valedictory, he reflects on the progress of Israel-Japan relations, the challenges that shaped his tenure, and the experiences that made Japan his "second home."
Part of My Heart Will Always Remain Here
As I conclude nearly five years as Ambassador of Israel to Japan, I leave with a deep sense of gratitude, pride, and, inevitably, sadness.
When I arrived in Japan, my mission was clear: to strengthen the friendship between Israel and Japan and bring our two peoples even closer.
Throughout my tenure, I sought not only to represent Israel in Japan, but also to serve as an ambassador for Japan in Israel.
Through interviews, public diplomacy, and social media, we worked to introduce the Israeli public to Japan as it truly is—a trusted friend, a country that stood beside Israel after the horrific terrorist attacks of October 7, a nation that rejected discrimination against Israelis, and a society that warmly welcomes Israeli visitors.
An Extraordinary Posting
The circumstances of my tenure were anything but ordinary. My first year coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, and the second half of my mission was shaped by the war imposed on Israel following the October 7 attacks.
These unprecedented challenges inevitably affected the pace of our bilateral engagement, but they never weakened the friendship between our two nations.
I remain deeply grateful to the Government of Japan for its principled support during this difficult period.
Japan recognized Israel's right to defend itself, condemned the terrorist organization Hamas, consistently called for the immediate release of the hostages, reaffirmed that Iran must never obtain nuclear weapons, and supported efforts to promote long-term regional stability.
Deepening Bilateral Ties
Despite these challenges, the past five years brought significant progress in Israel–Japan relations. We celebrated the launch of direct flights between Tel Aviv and Tokyo, completed the feasibility study toward an Economic Partnership Agreement, signed a Working Holiday Agreement, and proudly participated in Expo 2025 Osaka, where more than 1.8 million visitors have experienced the Israeli Pavilion.
We also expanded cooperation in innovation, science, healthcare, communications, the economy, and people-to-people exchanges, supported by numerous high-level visits between our governments.
Israel remains committed to expanding the circle of peace. Building on the Abraham Accords and recent understandings with Lebanon, we hope to broaden regional cooperation and create a more stable and prosperous Middle East.
Looking ahead, I am convinced that the future of Israel–Japan relations is exceptionally bright. As vibrant democracies committed to innovation, the rule of law, and human creativity, our countries are natural partners.
I hope to see Economic Partnership Agreement negotiations begin, greater connectivity between our countries, closer cooperation in technology, security, healthcare, agriculture, tourism, and scientific research, and continued exchanges between our young generations.
A Lasting Affection for Japan
Beyond my diplomatic responsibilities, whenever my official duties allowed, what I will treasure most are the experiences and friendships that made Japan my second home.
I will remember skiing in the Japanese Alps, diving in Okinawa and Oshima, climbing Mount Fuji, running the Tokyo Marathon, attending every Grand Sumo Tournament, exploring Japan's remarkable landscapes, visiting the art island of Naoshima, conducting business in Osaka and Nagoya, and enjoying one of the world's finest cuisines.
These experiences deepened not only my appreciation for Japan but also my affection for its people.
The values that define Japan—its pursuit of excellence, respect for others, sense of harmony, cleanliness, beauty, and safety—have earned my lasting admiration. It is no surprise that Japan has become one of the most desired destinations for Israeli travelers.
Diplomatic assignments eventually come to an end. Friendships do not.
Although I am leaving Japan, part of my heart will always remain here.
Thank you, Japan. I will miss you.
Gilad Cohen
Ambassador of Israel to Japan
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