Foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt becomes first UK minister to give speech in Japanese
Jeremy Hunt has been applauded for becoming the first UK minister to give an entire speech in Japanese in a bid to strengthen the relationship between the two countries.
The foreign secretary, who lived in Japan for 18 months when he was in his 20s, praised the country for the politeness and determination of its citizens.
Speaking fluently at a news conference in Tokyo on Tuesday, he promised a “new era of friendship” between the two nations and said the UK will always be a friend to the people of Japan.
He said: “I’ve had a great love of Japan since I was a young man. I first came to Japan in 1990 and lived in Tokyo, Kyoto and Nagasaki.
“I have great admiration for Japanese politeness, perfectionism and determination.
“I’m here in Japan today as Foreign Minister to deepen a new era of UK–Japan friendly relations. Our two island nations have so much in common.
“Thanks to the rules-based international system we have enjoyed many years of peace and prosperity. I think both countries would like to further strengthen this peace and prosperity.
“To the people of Japan, the UK will always be your friend. Today I am here to take forward the new era of friendship between Britain and Japan.”
Reacting to his speech, one person on social media said: “Anyone who says they’re not impressed with that better be able to recite colloquial Japanese poetry with a flawless accent.”
Others said it was “very impressive indeed” and another wrote: “Whatever your thoughts about Jeremy Hunt you’ve got to admit this is pretty impressive.”
Have to say it, @Jeremy_Hunt is bringing dignity and flair to his role as @foreignoffice https://t.co/Wuz3etykT8
— Frank Manning (@Billymanning) September 18, 2018
The successful speech on Tuesday came weeks after an embarrassing gaffe during the foreign secretary’s visit to Beijing.
Mr Hunt admitted making a “terrible mistake” after referring to his Chinese wife as Japanese during an official meeting with Chinese counterparts.
During a meeting with top government figures, he said: “My wife is Japanese – my wife is Chinese. That’s a terrible mistake to make.”
Mr Hunt married Lucia Guo in 2009 and the couple have three children together.
