Dear members and friends of BLCCJ,<\/p>\n
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We informed you last week of the passing away of Ambassador Nothomb, on our Facebook page.<\/p>\n
Patrick Nothomb had first served as General Consul in Osaka, and later in his career as Ambassador to Japan.<\/p>\n
For those of us who had the privilege to know him, he will remain an iconic character, inspiring, charismatic, loved and respected by all.<\/p>\n
He was a true lover of Japan – arguably as much as his dear Ardennes – understanding and embracing its people and culture like no other.<\/p>\n
Beyond his amazing fluency in Japanese, he was a passionate and skilled Noh singer.<\/p>\n
He had so much empathy for both his fellow citizens and Japanese people, that I believe both countries were one and one only Motherland in his mind, in his heart. Even after his last posting here – an odd 30 years ago – he kept close ties with Japan and the numerous friends he made here.<\/p>\n
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As BLCCJ, we gladly benefited from his watchful eye, everlasting support and wise guidance.<\/p>\n
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On a personal perspective, after having been a close friend and colleague of my father (including troubled times in Congo (1962!), he became to me a mentor and a dear friend as well.<\/p>\n
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Patrick, we will miss you truly, and allow me to hereby present our deepest condolences to your beloved ones, on behalf of the BLCCJ and its friends here.<\/p>\n
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Fare well,<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Fabrice Tilot<\/p>\n
BLCCJ President<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"