On Thursday 13th February 2025, the Japan-Sweden Society (JSS) hosted a reception at the residence of Ambassador Viktoria Li to formally welcome her as the Swedish Ambassador to Japan. The event was attended by JSS members and moderated by Managing Director Stefan Nilsson.
In his opening remarks, Acting President Seiji Morimoto welcomed the guests and introduced Ambassador Li, highlighting her distinction as the first female ambassador of Sweden to Japan in the long history of the Swedish foreign service. He also noted her extensive expertise in Asia, having previously served at the Swedish Embassy in China and as Consul General in Shanghai. Mr. Morimoto praised her remarkable achievement in overseeing the recent visit of Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson to Japan, which elevated the bilateral relationship between the two nations to a strategic partnership amid evolving security dynamics in Eurasia.
In her speech, Ambassador Li looked back on her short time in Japan, noting how quickly it had passed since her arrival. She emphasized that the Prime Minister’s visit significantly bolstered bilateral relations across various sectors. In particular, she emphasized the newly established close security partnership between Sweden and Japan—a development unimaginable just a few years ago, prompted by the increasingly complex geopolitical landscape. Ambassador Li also noted the growing economic and industrial cooperation between the two countries, including in cutting-edge sectors. She expressed optimism that the upcoming World Expo in Osaka would provide further opportunities to strengthen ties in areas such as royal, political, industrial, and cultural exchanges.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Li acknowledged the demanding schedule that awaits her, filled with numerous events and responsibilities. She expressed her commitment to fulfilling her duties and further deepening the friendship between Sweden and Japan.
