Peter Berry, President of The Crown Agents Foundation, has received one of Japan's most prestigious awards in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the advancement of Japan's position in the international community through economic cooperation and other activities.
The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon was presented to him by the new Japanese Ambassador in London on behalf of His Majesty The Emperor of Japan in July.
Mr Berry's citation records that as a highly regarded practitioner in the field of development assistance, he has also played a valuable role in advancing Japan's position by enlightening other experts in the field on the significance of Japanese policy and projects, and deserved to be honoured for his outstanding contribution to Japan-UK relations.
Japan's London Embassy website quotes Mr. Berry on hearing that he was to be decorated: "I am deeply honoured," he said, "to receive this distinguished Award. It reflects, more than any actions on my own part, more than 20 years of partnership between Crown Agents' staff throughout the world and their counterparts in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, JICA and JBIC. For me it will, moreover, be a constant happy reminder of my many and lasting friendships with Japanese colleagues."