What is in common between a country of rising Sun and Ukraine? We are separated by huge distances on map, but are connected by one common goal – reconstruction of own country

Sakura (cherry tree) is a traditional Japanese symbol. Sakura flowers are considered as a place of ancestors’ souls’ peace, memory, and spooning its blossoming is set to calm and bring prosperity to all living beings. Looking at sakura trees means to remember your ancestors and then they help you. It is said in Japan, as they respect history of their country and work hard on its renewing.
Lately, one of the biggest foreign investors in Ukraine is Japan, and 2017 is announced to be a year of Japan in Ukraine. Honored guests are invited to Zhytomyr – it’s an assistance for cooperating, strengthening connections, cultural popularization and traditions of Japanese nation.
Wise and hardworking citizens of faraway country in person of Incredible and Honored Ambassador of Japan in Ukraine Sir Shigeki Sumi and his wife Tomoko Sumi on 25 of April took a salute to Zhytomyr citizens and took part in planting sakuras in the heart of the city. On Mykhailivska Street appeared a sophisticated beauty – 11 poles purchased by Hennidii Zubko.
Our small but cozy street became noisy and crowded: a lot of guests came to visit our festive holiday.
Vice-Prime Minister Hennadii Zubko himself, mayor of Zhytomyr Serhii Suhomlyn, Head of Zhytomyr Reagional administration Ihor Hundych, Fr Bohdan Boiko and other honored guests took part in planting trees.
Non-governmental organization “Zhytomyr, Voice Up!” has also joined to significant for Zhytomyr event.
Liudmyla Zubko, Tetiana Parfientieva and Iryna Marenkova planted two adorable trees themselves.
It’s incredible, but there have already blossomed couple of lovely pink flowers! Coincidence? I don’t think so! It’s just a symbol of faith rebirth: those who dream and work, definitely get what they want.
During its history, Japan has overcome a lot of horrible events. They know, what is to reconstruct the country. The key point is that they understand others’ misfortune and know how to support. Blossoming trees presented to the city are happiness for all and it’s a big responsibility as a symbol of rebirth and peace, which must settle down in our souls.

Translated by Aliona Matushevich