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.

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.

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.

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.

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.