President Mary McAleese has begun an official visit to Japan.
The purpose of the trip is to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries in the areas of trade, culture and diplomacy.
Ireland enjoys strong diplomatic and trade ties with Japan, the world's second largest economy, and Ireland's eighth largest trading partner.
Mrs McAleese's visit is designed to further enhance these relations while supporting the efforts of Irish companies in establishing a greater presence in Japan.
Today she attended the launch of a new travel guidebook by Tourism Ireland for the Japanese market, before speaking at a business event organised by Enterprise Ireland.
Later, the President delivered a lecture at the University of Tokyo, entitled 'Ireland and Japan at the beginning of the new Millennium'.
Her lecture, among other things, promoted Ireland as a destination for Japanese students to come and study.
Tomorrow Mrs McAleese will meet Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko at the Imperial Palace.
Next week, the President will pay a State visit to South Korea.
