A formal ceremony was held yesterday at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, where Ambassador Roger Dubach presented his letter of credence to His Majesty Emperor Naruhito, marking the official commencement of his tenure as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Switzerland to Japan. In his new role, Ambassador Dubach aims to foster a trusted partnership between Switzerland and Japan, promote a shared culture of innovation across various sectors, and highlight Switzerland’s role as a pioneering nation.
Following the presentation, Ambassador Dubach and Emperor Naruhito engaged in a warm exchange, reflecting on the longstanding friendship between Switzerland and Japan as they celebrate the 160th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year. They recalled the Emperor’s visit to Switzerland in 2014 during his tenure as Crown Prince. His Majesty extended congratulations to Ambassador Dubach and offered a warm welcome to Japan. Accompanying Ambassador Dubach was a delegation from the Swiss embassy, including David Braun, Minister; Paolo Lunardi, First Secretary; Daniela Gituma, Second Secretary and Consul; Colonel Christoph Buschor, Defense Attaché; and Sarah Hayoz, Attaché.
In addition, Moi Lemoshira presented his letters of credence to His Majesty Emperor Naruhito as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kenya to Japan. The ceremony, steeped in Japanese culture and tradition, included a brief exchange between Emperor Naruhito and Ambassador Lemoshira regarding the vibrant relations between Kenya and Japan, which have flourished for six decades. His Majesty conveyed best wishes to Dr. William Ruto, President of Kenya, and wished Ambassador Lemoshira success in his duties.
Ambassador Lemoshira is a seasoned diplomat with significant experience in leadership roles within the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs. Prior to his assignment in Japan, he served as Director General for Foreign Service—Political and Diplomatic Affairs and was Kenya’s Ambassador to Algeria from 2015 to 2019. He was accompanied by key officials from the Kenyan embassy, including Arthur A. Andambi, Deputy Head of Mission; Nina Alai, Minister Counsellor; Colonel Barbara Wanjiku, Defence Attaché; and Mary Chuma, Counsellor Administration.