On Monday, May 20, 2024, the Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS) and the Embassy of the Plurinational State of Bolivia in Japan held the "Bolivia Symposium: The Charms of Salar de Uyuni, Quinoa, and Llamas" at the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) Tokyo Headquarters Annex (also available online).  This event was recognized as a commemorative event for the 110th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Bolivia and the 125th anniversary of Japanese immigration to Bolivia.

The event began with opening remarks by JST Vice President MORIMOTO Shigeo, followed by a video message from Vice President David Choquehuanca Céspedes of the Plurinational State of Bolivia and a welcome message from Charge d'Affaires ad interim of the Embassy of the Plurinational State of Bolivia in Japan, Ms. Natalia Fernanda Salazar Balderrama.

In the first session on “Quinoa and Llamas,” Dr. Rolando Gregorio Oros Martínez (General Manager of the PROINPA Foundation and member of the SATREPS Super Food Bolivia project) introduced the "Diversity and Charm of Andean Crops," Dr. Giovanna Rocio Almanza Vega (Professor at San Andrés University) presented the "Functionality of Quinoa and Bolivian Quinoa Cuisine," and Dr. NAGATOSHI Yukari (Project Leader at JIRCAS) discussed the "SATREPS Super Food Bolivia Project: The Charms of Quinoa."

In addition, in light of the fact that 2024 is the International Year of the Camel, the Bolivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs screened a video about camelids (llamas, alpacas, guanacos, vicuñas, etc.), explaining their importance in local communities, the economy, and food security of Bolivia, a multiethnic country. Then, Dr. TOUKURA Yuji (Manager of Human Resource Development, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine) talked about "Camelids in South America - Llamas and Vicuñas." At the end of the Session 1, JIRCAS Vice-President YANAGIHARA Seiji gave the closing remarks on behalf of the organizers.

In the second session, Charge d'Affaires Salazar introduced Bolivian tourism and culture. Attendees had the opportunity to taste quinoa dishes and enjoy live performances of Andean folklore music.

Thanks to everyone who attended in person and those who watched online. The event will be posted on the YouTube "JIRCAS channel" at a later date
 

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https://www.jircas.go.jp/en/program/proc/blog/20240221