The 18th Arab Charity Bazaar

The popular “The Society of Wives of Arab Ambassadors in Japan (SWAAJ)” bazaar was held for the first time after seven years at the Bazaar Roppongi Izumi Garden Gallery. The bazaar is an opportunity to experience authentic Arab culture.

Canceled several times due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was a splendid opening with the presence of Her Imperial Highness Princess Hisako Takamado. The opening ceremony was also attended by Arab ambassadors and their spouses, and many dignitaries including Mrs. Yuko Hayashi, spouse of Mr. Yoshimasa Hayashi, Foreign Minister, and Mrs. Kaori Kono, spouse of Mr. Taro Kono, Digital Minister.

As in prior years, each country’s embassy had its own unique booth. Beautiful handicrafts from Arab countries, beautifully designed goods, items from Arab museums, sweets made with dates, and authentic meals prepared by chefs from each country’s embassy were also provided.

In addition to enjoying shopping for authentic goods, participants were able to experience Arab calligraphy and henna. What is noteworthy is that a full-fledged Arab tent was set up. There was also tent where the Japanese participants were able to relax with a cup of mint tea and eat sweet dates.

This year’s bazaar was spearheaded by Mrs. Houda KALLEL, spouse of the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tunisia to Japan, Mohammed El-Mi. Mrs. Huda is very familiar with Japanese culture, as she has been stationed here two times.

Delicately arranged to suit Japanese tastes, it was an event commemorating the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the splendid “The Society of Wives of Arab Ambassadors in Japan (SWAAJ).”