Date of publication: Oct 22, 2018
Alexis Aquino
- Minister counsellor
- Embassy of the Republic of Peru http://embajadadelperuenjapon.org
Date of birth: June 18, 1972
Hometown: Lima
Number of years in Japan (cumulative): 2 (as of October 2018)
Q1: What was your first encounter with Japan?
Growing up in Peru in the ’70s, my first encounter with Japanese culture was through TV shows like “Astro Boy,” “Speed Racer,” “Ultra Seven” and many others. I also had some friends at school who were of Japanese descent — nikkei. This made me realize the importance of the Japanese community in Peru; one that will commemorate 120 years of Japanese immigration to my country in 2019.
Q2: Please state your motto in life and why you have chosen it.
My main mottos are about seizing the great opportunities that life grants you and how you should go for them. For example, “The sky is the limit,” “The world is yours,” “You only live once.” I try to instill this motivation in my children, encouraging them to follow their dreams.
Q3 : Over your career, what achievement are you the proudest of?
I am proud and honored to be representing my country as a Peruvian diplomat. My position has given me the opportunity to participate in different bilateral and multilateral meetings where I am able to defend Peruvian interests and try to create consensus among different international actors during negotiations on several topics. Being a diplomat is a challenging task.
Q4 : What are your goals during your time in Japan, your current position or in life?
As a Peruvian diplomat, I try to contribute toward strengthening relations between Peru and Japan. Both countries share universal values and are important partners across the Pacific Ocean. During my tenure in Japan, I would like to increase Japanese interest in Peru as an exciting tourist destination with its cultural and natural diversity, its openness and friendly people, its rich cuisine and its pisco.
Q5 : What wisdom, advice or tips can you give to people living and working in Japan?
Japan is the third-largest economy in the world. This is possible not only because of its government, but also because of its people. In this regard, I would suggest to foreigners who are living and working in this country to try to follow the Japanese way of life — respect others, keep your city clean and follow the rules.
Last updated: Oct 22, 2018