Welcome Dinner on 25 March, 2000

They arrived at Naoetsu from Tokyo by bus around 6:00 p.m. and although they didn't have enough time to rest, they looked  fine. The  toast was given by Mr. Yamaga, Chief Secretary of JASJ, so we enjoyed the party in a sociable atmosphere.  We members of the JASJ  bade  warm welcome to them in English. Each of our guests delivered speeches, which impressed us all greatly.  Mr. Henderson said, "We arrived at Tokyo from Australia but our travel starts from here in Naoetsu." Mr. Yates said, " All of us are in a family."

A recitation of a poem, "May in Naoetsu", which is one of 19 poems made by Mr. Mudie at the Naoetsu Prisoner's Camp during 1942-1945 was recited by Mr. Mudie himself.  Ms. Yokozeki then read Japanese translation done by Mr. Yagi. Considering his age, his voice was still sonorous, which was something surprised us. He delivered the poem from memory because with his eyesight failing, he was unable to read it.  Each and every one of us were moved by his recitation.

Following this, Mr. Kondo informed us that he and Mr. Yates envisioned a new vision for the future and for leaders of each society. Their answer for the future was to increase the involvement of our respective young people and offer more opportunities to undertake home stays etc. Ms. Walsh raised an important point: " We need a positive purpose to do so." There might be difficulties ahead of us; however our hearts bounded with the hope of mutually co-operative activities.