ANNIVERSARY 1914
The start of World War I sees the UK and Japan fighting on the same side.
1921
Prince Hirohito visits the UK, marking the first time a Japanese crown prince has been allowed to travel abroad.
1941
The UK–Japan relationship cools as the political events of the 1930s unfold. In December 1941, the UK and Japan are formally at war. Britons living in Japan and its territories, as well as Japanese in Britain and its territories are confined: some are repatriated while others are imprisoned throughout the war. In addition, many British and commonwealth soldiers and civilians in Asia become prisoners of war. Their experiences cast a deep shadow over bilateral ties for many years.
1951
The Treaty of San Francisco brings a formal end to wartime hostilities. Both countries begin to rebuild their relationship.
1953
The British Council is established in Japan to promote the UK: its culture, education system and economy.
1961
Princess Alexandra visits Japan. This trip and Prince Hirohito’s presence at the coronation in 1953 of Queen Elizabeth II re-establishes links between the royal and imperial families.
1970
The Osaka Expo—following the Tokyo 1964 Summer Olympics—further restores Japan’s place in the international community of nations. The stage is set for a long-lasting boom in UK–Japan relations.
1971
YKK Corporation becomes the first Japanese firm to open a factory in the UK.
1975
Queen Elizabeth II comes to Japan on a state visit.
1988
Sanko Gosei, in conjunction with Marubeni Corporation, becomes the 100th Japanese firm to invest in the UK.
www.bbr.co.jp
ba.com
www.bbcjapan.co.jp
www.britishcouncil.or.jp
1988
glaxosmithkline.co.jp
In 1988, Sanko Gosei became the 100th Japanese firm to invest in the UK.
www.kreabgavinanderson.com
MAY 2013 | BCCJ ACUMEN | 17 MAY 2013 | BCCJ ACUMEN | 17