I wish to express my congratulations on the 50th anniversary of the Japan Foundation Award. I would also like to congratulate the Foundation on their 50th anniversary last year. On this year of commemoration, I recall the way the Foundation has so sincerely and passionately worked over its long history as the only organization in Japan specializing in comprehensive international cultural exchange programs, and I wish to express my deepest respect for the many accomplishments of the Foundation.

We at Simul International were also the recipients of the Japan Foundation Special Prize in 1977. After learning about the meaning of the award and the accomplishments of the many other recipients over the years, we are deeply honored to be included in the award's prestigious history. I wish to take this opportunity to once again express my gratitude.

Simul International was founded by leading conference interpreter Komatsu Tatsuya and his partners in 1965 as Japan's first simultaneous interpreting agency. For almost 60 years thereafter, our employees, registered interpreters, and translators, have worked hard every day according to our mission to support international communications that overcome barriers between nations and people as language professionals.

Communications between the members of international society change each year according to the changes in the environment and social conditions. But however much the means and tools at our disposal may change, communication itself remains as important as ever. We will continue to pursue and provide the ideal interpreting and translation solutions to further contribute to an increase in international understanding and the promotion of international friendship.

I sincerely hope for the further development of the Foundation and for success in the endeavors of the award recipients.

YOSHINO Kumiko
President
Simul International, Inc.

（Original text in Japanese）

Awards and Special Prizes: Recipients List 1973 - 1995