President Michel Temer inaugurated the Japan House São Paulo space this Sunday (30 April). The project is a global initiative by the Japanese government aiming to offer cities worldwide a new perspective on contemporary Japan. São Paulo was the first city in the world chosen to join the initiative.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, which was also attended by Japanese Deputy Prime Minister Taro Aso, President Temer said the arrival of the project will bring the two countries closer together both by disseminating culture and fostering new business opportunities.

“It is my great joy to attend the inauguration of the world's first Japan House, which combines Japanese beauty and culture to the human bonds of friendship that unite our two countries. Japan's culture and sense of organisation are a source of delight to all. We have much to learn, and this project will help disseminate this culture," said Michel Temer.

With three floors, the Japan House São Paulo will receive exhibitions, seminars, workshops and activities by Japanese creators and entrepreneurs from the areas of art, design, fashion, gastronomy, science and technology.

For Deputy Prime Minister Taro Aso, São Paulo, home to the largest nikkey (Japanese emigrants and their descendants) community in the world, is an ideal city to host the project. “The Japan House multiplies the circles that unite Brazil and Japan. The project will foster new businesses and new joint research projects. In addition, the new generations of the nikkey community can begin to take interest in their country of origin," he said.

Moments before the inauguration, the Brazilian President and the Japanese Deputy Prime Minister held a bilateral meeting with Brazilian and Japanese authorities at the venue. The official opening ceremony of the space was also attended by São Paulo state governor Geraldo Alckmin and the mayor of the city of São Paulo, João Doria.

Labour Reform

Temer also took the opportunity to highlight the importance of the reforms being proposed in the country. According to the president, misunderstandings and objections are understandable, since they are typical manifestations of Brazil's full democracy.

“I want to take this opportunity to tell everyone, especially the Brazilian press, that I have spoken to the deputy prime minister about the fundamental reforms we are implementing in the country, including labour reform. Brazilians are an optimistic people. Regardless of protests, Brazil will keep working," he said.

The president added that the measures will benefit workers and bring about positive impacts to unemployment.

“I cast this message to Brazilian and Japanese investors to confidently reassure all that we are clearing the paths of the economy. This will give the Brazilian people more tranquility, and eliminate the unemployment that afflicts many at this time," he added.