The delegation of the Japanese Ukrainian Culture Association, led by its chairman Mr. Motohiro Ono, visited the Scientific and Technical Library and the Ukrainian-Japanese Center of Lviv Polytechnic National University. In addition to the chairman of the Association, the delegation included Mr. Satoshi Hoshino and Mz. Aki Ono.
The purpose of the visit was to show support for the Ukrainian people in their fight against Russian evil.
In his speech, Motohiro Ono drew a parallel between the Ukrainian and Japanese peoples: after all, Japan was also at war with Russia more than 100 years ago. And it won. Citing the works of the poetess Yosano Akiko as an example, he said that both peoples have the same pain, the same enemy, the same thoughts and desires. Like the Japanese, we want victory and we want our relatives and loved ones to be alive and unharmed.
Another guest, Satoshi Hoshino, shared his experience of supporting Ukraine with those present. He said that Russia’s attack was for him like thunder out of the blue. And since February 24, he and his wife have been organizing events in support of Ukraine in their city of Ikoma (Nara Prefecture), working with Ukrainian refugees and popularizing Ukrainian culture in Japan. «Putin and I are the same age. I will continue to support Ukraine as long as he is at war with it», concluded his story Satoshi Hoshino.
The visitors of the Scientific and Technical Library already met the well-known singer Aki Ono in 2018 and 2019, during her visits to the Library and the Ukrainian-Japanese Center. Aki Ono demonstrates her ardent support for Ukraine not only with her appearance, but also with her creativity. Soon, her second book with an audio CD will be released, which will include Ukrainian songs in her performance. At the meeting she performed a cappella several pieces of music from the upcoming album, and charmed everyone. Together with those present, Aki Ono sang the National Anthem of Ukraine and the Sich Riflemen’s song «Oi u luzi chervona kalyna».
«I pray for Ukraine every day», said the singer after performing the prayer song «Ave Maria».
The event was organized, held and interpreted by Mr. Ihor Zorii, head of the Ukrainian-Japanese Center, Lviv Polytechnic National University.
Such friendly visits are very important for us, as every time they convince us that with such support we will surely win!
