Lithuanian language received attention from Japanese linguists
On the 17th of June in Tokyo, Sophia University with the Japanese Association of Slavists and the European Institute of Sophia University hosted international symposium “Baltic languages and their neighbours”, where scientists from Japan, the United States and Lithuania analyzed the history of multilingualism and multiculturalism, as well as current situation in Lithuania and Latvia.
The guest of the symposium – Vytautas Magnus University prof. Dr. Ineta Dabašinskienė in her presentation analyzed the views of residents of Baltic countries on foreign languages. Professor of Tokyo institute of foreign languages Eiko Sakurai read a report “Multilingualism in Lithuania: comparative analysis with Latvia”.
Lithuanian ambassador in Japan Egidijus Meilūnas talked about the historical ties between Lithuanian and Japan, which are more than a 100 years old. In his speech he mentioned well respected Lithuanian and Japanese politicians, scientists and cultural actors who helped to establish, maintain and strengthen bilateral relations.
Lithuanian ambassador also thanked one of the symposium initiators – professor and translator Eiko Sakurai, who has arranged and published one of the first Lithuanian textbooks in Japan. She also teaches Lithuanian language to students of Tokyo Foreign Language University and Osaka University, as well as organizes summer courses for those, who want to learn Lithuanian. Currently, she is translating a novel written by the celebrated Lithuanian author Balys Sruoga “Dievų miškas” (“Forest of the Gods”).
On the 20th of June, for the merits in promoting and cherishing Lithuanian language, Japanese linguist Eiko Sakurai received a Certificate of Appreciation at the Embassy of Lithuania in Tokyo.
