Date of publication: Dec 03, 2018

Kudina Tuaeva

Third Secretary: Embassy of the Russian Federation to Japan

Date of birth: Sept. 7, 1988

Hometown: Moscow

Number of years in Japan (cumulative): 2 (as of December 2018)

Q1: What was your first encounter with Japan?

My first interaction with Japan happened at high school. I came across Shinto in an encyclopedia about world religions. It inspired me to learn more about traditional Japanese worship. All of a sudden, I discovered that there were many similarities between Shinto and ancient beliefs of Russian peoples, especially those who live in the southern regions of our country.

Q2: Please state your motto in life and why you have chosen it.

Not long ago, one sensei (teacher) taught me a proverb that became a real motto of mine. From that day, my work in Japan goes under this slogan. It is ichi-go ichi-e or literally, “once in a lifetime encounter.” Now I value every single meeting as a special occurrence that may never repeat again.

Q3 : Over your career, what achievement are you the proudest of?

My diplomatic career is rather short, so it is not close to any kind of culmination that can be assessed as an achievement. I think that for any foreign diplomat being posted to Japan to serve one’s country is of great worth itself. What’s more, it gives you a very broad professional vision of the entire world.

Q4 : What are your goals during your time in Japan, your current position or in life?

Diplomatic work is about social interaction and ability to communicate with people of various backgrounds. In these terms, I am proud of having made friends from different countries. I hope that it ultimately helps to promote better understanding of Russia. As for my goals in Japan, one day I would like to visit all 47 prefectures; however, for now, I am infatuated with Ise-Shima in Mie Prefecture and Okinawa.

Q5 : What wisdom, advice or tips can you give to people living and working in Japan?

My only piece of advice for those who decide to devote a large part of their life to Japan is to be openhearted, because Japanese have a great sensibility for it. Wherever you go to in Japan, if you are sincere, you will find kind eagerness to help and natural curiosity about your country.

Last updated: Dec 03, 2018