The Department of ASEAN Affairs, in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan and C asean, organised the ASEAN-Japan Cultural Event on the Occasion of the 50^th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday 3 November 2023 between 10.30 – 11.30 hrs. The event aimed at promoting people-to-people exchanges between ASEAN and Japan, as well as highlighted the role of Thailand as the Country Coordinator for ASEAN-Japan Dialogue Relations for the years 2021 – 2024.  H.E. Mr. Russ Jalichandra, Advisor to the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and H.E. Mr. Nashida Kazuya, the Ambassador of Japan to Thailand, delivered the opening remarks.

      The cultural performance showcased the Tsugaru Shamisen, a traditional three-string Japanese instrument, performed by the promising young artist ‘NIYA’ who played repertoire of songs from ASEAN countries and Japan to reflect the close and cordial heart-to-heart partnership between ASEAN and Japan.

      NIYA is a rising Japanese artist who has captivated audiences worldwide with his ability to play the Tsugaru Shamisen in a variety of musical genres by blending and adapting the traditional Japanese instrument with modern works. He has performed extensively overseas, including USA (Carnegie Hall in New York City), Turkey, China, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Thailand.