On Wednesday, August 27, 2025, His Excellency Kosei Murota, Consul General of Japan in Los Angeles, paid his inaugural visit to the Headquarters of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America. The distinguished guest, accompanied by Deputy Consul General Naoko Kamitani, was warmly welcomed by the Diocesan Primate Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, the Diocese’s Executive Director Dn. Harout Markarian, and Special Projects Director Mr. Diran Avagyan.

During the cordial meeting, Archbishop Derderian highlighted the longstanding and fruitful relationship between the Western Diocese and the Consulate General of Japan. The Primate recalled the many collaborative initiatives between the two institutions, including a diocesan delegation’s memorable visit to Japan and the Diocese’s participation in the Kakehashi Project last year, which further deepened cultural and educational ties.

The Consul General expressed his appreciation for the Western Diocese’s continued spirit of partnership and the meaningful exchanges that have enriched mutual understanding between the Armenian and Japanese communities.

As the visit concluded, the Western Diocese reaffirmed its commitment to advancing this relationship through future collaborations and cultural initiatives. In a gesture of goodwill and appreciation, an exchange of mementos was held, symbolizing the shared vision of friendship and cooperation.