The Japan Football Association (JFA) hosted a dinner and supported “Appreciation Gathering” hosted by the Japanese government in Brasilia during Prime Minister Abe Shinzo’s visit to Brazil, inviting persons who have immeasurably contributed to the development of Japanese football.

Following the dinner on 31 July, on the next day, 1 August, “Appreciation Gathering” was held with appearances by Prime Minister Abe, Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Seko, Japan's ambassador to Brazil Umeda Kunio, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister Kimura, Vice President Magalhaes of Brazil Football Association and JFA President Daini Kuniya. Eight football masters who greatly contributed to Japanese football - Mr. Alcind, Mr. Oscar, Mr. Sampaio, Mr. Zico, Mr. Sergio Echigo, Mr. Dunga, Mr. Bismarck and Mr. Marinho also attended the meeting. At the end of the meeting, Mr. Abe and Mr. Zico exchanged passes and all participants snapped a commemorative photo. There was a friendly atmosphere from start to finish.
The following abstracts are from Prime Minister Abe’s speech at “Appreciation Gathering” and President Daini’ speech during the dinner.

ABE Shinzo, Prime Minister of Japan

Thanks to plenty of Brazilians who successfully flourished as a player or a coach in Japan, Japanese football has developed, as well as the relationship between Japan and Brazil has improved. I would like to express our appreciation for the huge contribution. Not only football exchanges, but also did they contribute to a wide range of fields. Having made a sense of intimacy between two countries is a big asset for the Japan-Brazil relationship, which must be highly recognized. I also would like to greatly appreciate for warm supports including the help for a charity match just after the Great East Japan Earthquake which occurred in March, 2011. Since 2015 will mark the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Brazil, we are planning to host a number of events in both countries to deepen the mutual understanding between two countries. I would like you all to provide us with further supports in order to continue to expand the Japan-Brazil relationship.

DAINI Kuniya, JFA President

It is about to be a half century since the relationship of football between Japan and Brazil started. Particularly, after J.League was launched, world-class players and coaches continuously came to play in Japan, and the level of Japanese football has dramatically improved. It goes without saying that such progress would not have been achieved without Brazilian players and coaches who brought passion into Japan’s football on a foreign land. I would like to express my sincerest appreciation.
The next year will be the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Brazil. I hope the exchange between the countries will be further blossoming through football.