On Wednesday, January 29, from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM, Espace Zmorda experienced a truly magical moment.
A courtesy meeting took place between members of a delegation from the Japan-Tunisia Friendship Association, led by its president, Tomoo Nakayama, and members of the Tunisia-Japan Friendship Association (AATUJA), along with other members of the Espace Zmorda Club.
Mr. Nakayama represented the sogo shosha ITOCHU in Tunisia for 15 years, while Mrs. Ono, as the wife of Mr. Ono, a former Japanese Ambassador to Tunisia, built strong friendships during their time in the country. Their deep knowledge of Tunisia and the many friendships they had formed over the years brought a special emotional touch to the gathering, which spontaneously turned into an elegant and exceptionally warm cultural event.
The event was honored by the presence of Mr. Abdelmajid Mraihi, Director of Tunisian Television, and Mr. Hiroatsu Satake, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Japanese Embassy, along with his wife. Some members of AATUJA warmly welcomed the delegation, showcasing the elegance and hospitality of Tunisian culture.
The visiting delegation, on a private cultural and tourism trip, included distinguished figures from the Japanese cultural scene, specializing in Ikebana, Kimono, music, and calligraphy. Similarly, remarkable Tunisian women of culture were present, including Chiraz Khrouf, the host and AATUJA member, along with Insaf Kilani Ennaceur and Emmanuelle Houerbi.
Insaf Kilani Ennaceur, a university artist-designer, exhibited stunning ceramic artworks inspired by Japanese culture, demonstrating an impressive mastery of the craft.
Dressed in a kimono, Emmanuelle Houerbi accompanied Toshie Ren Nakae on the piano for a performance of Sakura! Sakura! and other Japanese songs, as well as lyrical pieces.
Prominent ladies of the delegation gave a Kimono demonstration, transforming a young Tunisian participant into a true Geisha. Other esteemed members of the delegation showcased the art of Ikebana from the Shogetsu School, while Chiraz, the host, represented her own school, the Ohara School of Ikebana, through a magnificent exhibition.
The gathering concluded with a group photo and a warm bowl of lablabi, often referred to as the Tunisian ramen.
