Archbishop Hovnan Derderian Attends Welcoming Reception For Newly Appointed Consul General Of Japan In Los Angeles

A welcoming reception was held in honor of the newly appointed Consul General of Japan in Los Angeles, His Excellency Kosei Murota on Friday, October 17, 2025. Representing the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, the Diocesan Primate, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, attended the event accompanied by Deacon Harout Markarian, Executive Director of the Western Diocese. The reception brought together distinguished guests from various cultural and diplomatic circles, marking the beginning of Consul General Murota’s mission in Los Angeles.

In his remarks, Archbishop Derderian expressed heartfelt appreciation to Consul General Murota for the kind invitation and extended his best wishes for a fruitful tenure. He highlighted the longstanding and meaningful relationship between the Consulate General of Japan and the Western Diocese, a bond that has grown stronger through joint cultural and humanitarian initiatives. The Archbishop also recalled the Diocese’s successful collaborations with former Consul Generals Akira Muto and Kenko Sone, underscoring the spirit of mutual respect and friendship that continues to unite the Armenian and Japanese communities in the region.