As part of the cultural exchange of “Pacific Partnership 2016” in Palau led by the Ministry of Defense and the Self-Defense Forces, the Maritime Self-Defense Force’s transport ship “Shimokita” transported 50 Judo Clothes and 110 judo tatami mats. On August 10th, we handed it over to the local Palau Judo Federation. Judo clothes and tatami mats were donated by the NPO Judo Education Solidarity.

At the donation ceremony held at the Palau National Gymnasium on August 10, it was handed over to the Palau Judo Federation under the attendance of Captain Shimokita, the commander of the Maritime Self-Defense Force’s First Transport Corps. It was impressive that the smiles of the children wearing the donated judo clothes were dazzling and popping. It is said that the children are practicing with the goal of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. I am looking forward to the birth of the future Olympians from these children.

See below for the Japanese version.

防衛省・自衛隊による「パシフィック・パートナーシップ２０１６」におけるパラオへの柔道着等輸送