Shiratori's Visit to Malta in Dec 1997

Prof. Rei Shiratori visited the Republic of Malta from December 7 to December 14 in 1997 as president of Japan-Malta Friendship Association with its Friendship Mission of 69 members. He met Dr. Ugo Mifsud Bonnici, president of Malta, and Dr. Alfred Sant, prime minister in this 'island of world heritage.'



Prof. Shiratori and President Mifsud

    Although the Republic of Malta is a small country with its population of 370,000, it played a great role in drafting sea-bed treaties and in attaining detente. It is also famous for its pre-historic temples (B.C. 4100 - 5000) and fortress capital Valletta.
    Malta has paid, even during World War II, respects to the tombs of Japanese soldiers who died in Meditarenian Sea during World War I. Late Showa Emperor visited Malta when he was crown prince. The pine tree which was planted by Showa Emperor is still alive in San Anton Garden in Valletta.



Marsaxlokk bay

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Dawn of Meditarenian Sea (From Saint Gorge Hotel)