The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan has awarded a Certificate of Commendation to Mr. Sardar Al Bebany, President of Toyota Iraq and Chairman of Sardar Group, in recognition of his outstanding role in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between Iraq and Japan, and for his remarkable contributions to strengthening bilateral relations in both the economic and cultural fields.
This honor is part of the annual commendation program established by the Government of Japan to recognize individuals and organizations around the world who have made significant contributions to the development of international relations. The 2025 awards included approximately 173 individuals and 58 organizations globally. Mr. Al Bebany’s recognition is particularly distinguished as he was the only recipient from Iraq and the Middle East region, reflecting the high level of trust and respect his efforts have earned internationally.
This is the first time Mr. Sardar has received the award directly from the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, following his first Certificate of Commendation in 2022, which was presented by Mr Suzuki Kotaro, the Ambassador of Japan to Iraq. The new honor reaffirms the Japanese government’s continued appreciation for Mr. Al Bebany’s pivotal role in advancing cooperation between Iraq and Japan through economic initiatives that have driven development, and cultural and social programs that have deepened mutual understanding between the two nations.
During the ceremony, H.E. Ambassador Akira Endo expressed his deep admiration for Mr. Al Bebany’s achievements, stating: “It is a great honor to present this Certificate of Commendation on behalf of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan to Mr. Sardar Al Bebany in recognition of his exceptional contributions to promoting friendship and mutual understanding between Japan and Iraq. The presence of so many distinguished guests here today at our Embassy is itself a reflection of Mr. Sardar’s remarkable accomplishments over the years.”
Ambassador Endo continued: “Mr. Sardar’s success extends far beyond the business field. His long-standing dedication to empowering Iraqi talent, training managers and technicians in cooperation with the United Nations and other international organizations, and his adoption of Japanese business philosophy and values have made a lasting impact. Moreover, his initiative to introduce and plant Sakura (cherry blossom) trees across Iraq has brought a symbol of Japanese culture and friendship to the Iraqi people.”
He added: “Through humanitarian and development projects such as the Japanese Village in Nineveh, Mr. Sardar has actively supported the reconstruction of liberated areas and the promotion of sustainable urban development in collaboration with the Iraqi government and the United Nations.”
Ambassador Endo concluded his remarks by saying: “Mr. Sardar truly embodies the spirit of cooperation between Iraq and Japan. He is a man who combines Japanese values of humility, teamwork, and sincerity with the strong sense of community and family that defines Iraqi culture. He is a model of dedication and integrity.”
In his speech, Mr. Sardar Al Bebany expressed his heartfelt gratitude for this honor, stating: “Building sustainable relations between nations is founded on dialogue, trust, and mutual cooperation. Iraq has enormous potential to serve as a bridge connecting the Middle East and Asia. Initiatives like this open the door to strategic partnerships that drive mutual development and progress.”
He continued: “I would like to express my deepest appreciation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, to His Excellency the Ambassador, and to the people of Japan for this great honor. I reaffirm my commitment to continue working tirelessly to enhance our cooperation, create new opportunities for growth, and strengthen the bonds of friendship between our two countries.
"Finally, I dedicate this recognition to Iraq — my homeland — which continues its journey of rebuilding and development. I believe that through our joint efforts with Japan and other partners, we can achieve a brighter future for our people.”
This honor reflects Mr. Al Bebany’s strategic vision for international cooperation and his commitment to building long-term partnerships based on innovation, knowledge exchange, and mutual respect. It also highlights the international community’s recognition of his efforts to elevate Iraq’s standing globally, marking a new chapter of sustainable and fruitful cooperation between Iraq and Japan built upon mutual respect, trust, and shared progress.
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