Tokyo: Latvia’s Ministry of Culture State Secretary Dace Vilsone is set to embark on a strategic working visit to Tokyo and Osaka from August 20-23 to explore opportunities for enhancing bilateral cooperation in cultural education, particularly focusing on animation training, and to participate in Baltic Unity Day at the World Expo 2025.
According to Trend News Agency, Vilsone will meet with senior officials from Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology on August 21. The discussions will center on fostering collaboration in creative industries such as film, video games, and design. They will also explore cultural exchanges in literature, music, visual arts, and performing arts. Another key topic will be Japan’s best practices in protecting cultural heritage during crises, including climate-related disasters, and the potential involvement of Japanese professors in Latvia’s education system.
During her visit, Vilsone will engage with leaders from Japan’s oldest animation school, Yoyogi Animation Academy, to discuss partnerships in the film and gaming industries. Latvia’s Culture Academy and Art Academy are in the process of developing a new international animation education program, where Japanese expertise could be instrumental. In addition, she will have discussions with the president of Joshibi University of Art and Design about academic cooperation with Latvian universities, networking in design, and creative residency opportunities in Latvia.
On August 22, the agenda includes a meeting with representatives of Osaka University of Arts to discuss academic collaboration with the Art Academy of Latvia and the involvement of Japanese lecturers in the new animation program. Talks with the leadership of the Japanese Language Institute are also planned to enhance cultural exchanges, promote Latvian cultural projects, and facilitate Latvian performances and tours in Japan.
The visit will culminate on August 23 with Vilsone’s participation in the opening events of Baltic Unity Day at Expo 2025, alongside tours of the national pavilions of Japan, the Baltic states, Ukraine, and other countries.