On November 1st, Kanazawa University conferred the title of Honorary Professor upon H.E. Dr. Aurelijus Zykas, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Lithuania to Japan.
Ambassador Zykas studied at Kanazawa University from 1998 to 1999 as a MEXT scholarship student (Nikken-sei). He later earned a Ph.D. in Political Science from Vytautas Magnus University, where he served as a faculty member afterward, including roles of Associate Professor and Director of the Center for Asian Studies. In May 2022, he was appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and 2 Plenipotentiary of Lithuania to Japan.
Ambassador Zykas has played a leading role in strengthening Japan-Lithuania relations, particularly as a specialist in public diplomacy and Japanese cultural outreach. He has made significant contributions to the development of Japanese studies in Lithuania. Notably, during the signing of the partnership agreement between Vilnius University and Kanazawa University in 2024, he greatly supported the building of ties between the two institutions.
At the conferment ceremony, President Takashi Wada presented the certificate of title. During the subsequent discussion, the Ambassador shared the story of how he came to study in Kanazawa and fond memories from his time as a student, reaffirming his strong connection with the university. This honorary title is expected to further promote academic and cultural exchange between Kanazawa University and Lithuania.
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President Wada presented the certificate of title. -
H.E. Aurelijus Zykas, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Lithuania to Japan, holding the certificate of title.
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