Presentation Ceremony for 2026 Foreign Minister’s Commendation commemorating the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between Japan and Australia to Mrs. Akiko Stockton
2026/9/15
A reception was held at the Official Residence of the Consul-General on September 10, for the presentation ceremony of the 2026 Foreign Minister’s Commendation to Mrs. Akiko Stockton (President, Fukushima Society in Perth).
Mrs. Stockton founded the Fukushima Society in Perth and as president, has dedicated herself to promoting exchange between Japan and Australia, and supporting Fukushima's recovery through various activities including the fostering of economic ties between Fukushima Prefecture and Western Australia, and organizing Fukushima-themed booths and cultural performances at events such as the Perth Japan Festival. This commendation has been awarded in recognition of these achievements.
Mrs. Stockton founded the Fukushima Society in Perth and as president, has dedicated herself to promoting exchange between Japan and Australia, and supporting Fukushima's recovery through various activities including the fostering of economic ties between Fukushima Prefecture and Western Australia, and organizing Fukushima-themed booths and cultural performances at events such as the Perth Japan Festival. This commendation has been awarded in recognition of these achievements.
In his congratulatory speech, Consul-General Karimata commended Mrs. Stockton for her contribution to fostering mutual understanding and friendship between both countries, while also expressing his expectation that she would play an even greater role as a bridge in the friendship between Japan and Australia.
In her acceptance speech Mrs. Stockton expressed her sincere gratitude for receiving the commendation, also conveying her heartfelt thanks to members of the Fukushima Society and others who have supported her through all these activities. She also stated her ongoing commitment to contributing to the Japan-Australia friendship.
This award ceremony has provided an opportunity to raise awareness of the activities of Mrs. Stockton and the Fukushima Society in Perth, further boosting momentum for exchange between Japan and Australia, and support for Fukushima.
【Reference】
Foreign Minister’s Commendation commemorating the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between Japan and Australia (Western Australia)
https://www.perth.au.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_ja/11_000001_00865.html
In her acceptance speech Mrs. Stockton expressed her sincere gratitude for receiving the commendation, also conveying her heartfelt thanks to members of the Fukushima Society and others who have supported her through all these activities. She also stated her ongoing commitment to contributing to the Japan-Australia friendship.
This award ceremony has provided an opportunity to raise awareness of the activities of Mrs. Stockton and the Fukushima Society in Perth, further boosting momentum for exchange between Japan and Australia, and support for Fukushima.
【Reference】
Foreign Minister’s Commendation commemorating the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between Japan and Australia (Western Australia)
https://www.perth.au.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_ja/11_000001_00865.html