ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, Nov 13, CMC – After 50 years of diplomatic relations, the Government of Japan has appointed Dr Nicole Phillip, Acting Director of the University of the West Indies Global Campus here as the first Honorary Consul of Japan in Grenada.
On Wednesday, Japan’s Ambassador to Grenada, Dr. Akima Umezawa announced the appointment during a ceremony and stated that the appointment will significantly deepen the half century friendship relations between the two countries.
He referred to the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations as a “golden jubilee,” showcasing the significant progress in cooperation and support across diverse fields including Grenada’s vibrant carnival parade at Expo 2025 Osaka; Japan’s provision of special vessels for sargassum countermeasures; support for the expansion of vocational training centers; and the promotion of exchanges through media tours to Japan’s ODA facilities.
Over the years Japan has funded major infrastructure projects, such as building modern fish plants, and providing equipment like ice-making machines and freezer trucks to boost Grenada’s fisheries sector.
A news release disseminated by the Government Information Service said tthe Ambassador also highlighted Dr. Philip’s academic contributions, positioning her as an “enduring face” to lead the future of bilateral relations. He concluded his speech by calling for continued support and expressing gratitude to all stakeholders.
“Dr. Phillip expressed her profound gratitude for her selection as the first Honorary Consul of Japan to Grenada and for the opportunity to contribute to deepening relations between two countries which share another fifty years of close bilateral engagements in the future,” the release stated.
During the ceremony, Phillip Telesford in his capacity as Acting Prime Minister congratulated Phillip on her appointment while paying tribute to five decades of cooperation and friendship between Grenada and Japan.
CMC/ls/kb/2025