Sanae Takaichi Visits Australia, Meets Prime Minister, Exchanges Records to Bridge Distance with Music

Central News Agency (CNA reporter Dai Ya-chen, Tokyo, 5th exclusive report) Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi made her first visit to Australia from the 3rd to the 5th since taking office. Against the backdrop of tense international situations, her ''soft diplomacy'' through cultural and personal exchanges became a focal point. Among these, her interaction with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese through music brought them closer. Albanese hosted a banquet for Takaichi on the 4th local time. During the banquet, both sides exchanged gifts. Takaichi prepared a Japanese record stand and vinyl records from Japanese bands such as BABYMETAL and MAN WITH A MISSION; Albanese, in return, presented a signed drumhead and record from the classic Australian rock band AC/DC. Takaichi was a drummer in a light music club during her student days, and Albanese is also a music lover, which helped them connect. Takaichi later posted on social media X, stating that in addition to music, they also discussed topics such as food culture, calling it ''an excellent opportunity to deepen understanding of each other''s countries and build trust.'' Netizens in the comment section responded, ''Understanding each other''s preferences in advance and preparing thoughtful gifts, whether in business negotiations or diplomacy, the essence is fundamentally the same,'' and ''Connecting relations through music is truly wonderful.'' There was also an anecdote during the talks held on the same day. According to a post on the official X account of the Japanese Prime Minister''s Office, Takaichi had visited Australia during her honeymoon. She shared her memories of experiencing scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef, demonstrating her connection to the local area through this personal experience, further emphasizing the friendship between Japan and Australia. In addition, Takaichi also presented a high-grade ''Crown Melon'' from Shizuoka Prefecture, which was reportedly served at the dinner. According to a video released by the Prime Minister''s Office, Takaichi handed the melon to Albanese, saying, ''Thank you for lifting the import ban on melons (to Australia),'' to which Albanese replied, ''Fantastic.'' Takaichi explained, ''Normally, one melon vine produces five or six melons, but this is a super high-grade melon where one vine produces only one.'' Albanese jokingly asked, ''So, do I have to share this melon with everyone?'' Takaichi replied, ''Share it with Jodie (Albanese''s wife).'' Upon hearing this, Albanese made a big ''ok'' sign with his fingers, and the atmosphere was very harmonious. Takaichi later posted, ''In Australia, supporters of Japanese cuisine continue to increase, and exports of Japanese agricultural, forestry, and fishery products and food continue to grow. At the dinner hosted by Prime Minister Albanese, I presented the Prime Minister and his wife with Japanese melons (Shizuoka Prefecture''s ''Crown Melon'') whose export to Australia was just lifted in January this year. In addition, rice flour and rice flour products were promoted at the dinner. Through this visit, I deeply felt the high attention and expectations various countries have for Japanese agricultural, forestry, and fishery products and food.'' (Edited by Tang Sheng-yang) 1150505 Choose to stand with facts, every sponsorship you make is a force to protect press freedom. Download CNA''s ''First-hand News'' APP to get the latest news instantly. The text, images, and videos on this website may not be reproduced, publicly broadcast, publicly transmitted, or utilized without authorization.