Derartu Tulu, President of the Ethiopian Athletics Federation, stood as a beacon of honor as she was adorned with the prestigious Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, bestowed upon her by the Japanese government. This remarkable accolade, announced amidst great anticipation on November 3, 2023, marked a historic moment as Derartu Tulu became a distinguished foreign recipient of the 2023 Spring Imperial Decoration.
Her receipt of this honor was not merely a recognition of her personal achievements but a testament to her unwavering commitment to fortifying the bonds between Japan and Ethiopia through the realm of sports diplomacy and exchange. Throughout her illustrious career, Derartu Tulu had tirelessly championed the cause of fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between the two nations.
In the realm of sports diplomacy, Deputy Commissioner Derartu Tulu had played a pivotal role, facilitating memorable encounters between renowned Ethiopian runners and Japanese dignitaries. One such momentous occasion was the meeting between the late Prime Minister ABE Shinzo and Ethiopian athletes during his African tour in 2014, an event orchestrated with precision by Derartu Tulu herself.
Her endeavors extended beyond mere meetings, as she actively engaged with key figures in Japanese sports administration, including Mr. SUZUKI Daichi, Commissioner of the Japan Sports Agency, and Ms. HASHIMOTO Seiko, the then Minister overseeing the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Through these interactions, Derartu Tulu shared her invaluable insights and experiences, contributing significantly to the success and legacy of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
In the realm of sports exchange, Derartu Tulu's impact was profound. Through initiatives like sending marathon champion Mr. Abebe Mekonnen to serve as a coach at the Athletics Academy in Kasama City, she facilitated a vibrant exchange of expertise and talent, enriching the sporting landscapes of both nations.
Yet, her contributions extended beyond sports diplomacy, as she dedicated herself to the development of athletics and the promotion of national peace. Her multifaceted efforts were recognized and celebrated, culminating in her historic distinction as the first Ethiopian to receive the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette.
The ceremony, where Derartu Tulu received her well-deserved honor from Japanese Ambassador Shibata Hironori, marked a poignant moment in the annals of bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Japan. It symbolized not only the recognition of her individual achievements but also the enduring bond of friendship and cooperation between the two nations.
Established in 1875, the Order of the Rising Sun stands as a testament to Japan's commitment to honoring individuals of exceptional merit in international arenas. Derartu Tulu's receipt of this prestigious decoration exemplified her outstanding contributions to fostering friendship and understanding between Japan and Ethiopia, embodying the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect that the award seeks to promote.