On October 28, German Ambassador to Japan, H.E. Petra Sigmund, visited Sophia University’s Yotsuya Campus to deliver a lecture titled “Von China nach Japan” (From China to Japan). The event drew over 100 students and faculty members, who listened attentively throughout the session. The lecture was hosted by the European Institute of Sophia University and the Department of German Literature, with Professor Emerita Dr. Mechthild Duppel serving as moderator.

President Miki Sugimura opened the event with a welcome address, noting that the ambassador’s visit was made possible thanks to a direct request from a graduate student in the German literature program. Ambassador Sigmund graciously accepted the invitation, making the lecture a reality. President Sugimura also highlighted the long-standing ties between Sophia University and Germany, including the founding of the Department of German Literature at the university’s inception, the contributions of Father Joseph Dahlmann and first president Hermann Hoffmann, and the presence of German-named facilities on campus. She further emphasized the university’s academic and cultural exchanges with Germany, such as the establishment of the Cologne Office in 2015, collaboration with DAAD, and the German Institute for Japanese Studies on campus.

In her lecture, Ambassador Sigmund reflected on her study abroad experiences and diplomatic career, and spoke about Germany’s policy toward Asia and the importance of Japan-Germany relations. She stressed the need for strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region and the value of working with countries that share democratic principles. She also candidly discussed her journey as a female diplomat balancing career and family, offering encouragement to students.

The lecture was followed by a lively Q&A session, covering topics such as foreign policy, gender equality in the workplace, and academic exchange between Japan and Germany. Questions from the audience included “What mindset is essential for diplomats?” and “How do you navigate differences between nations?” Ambassador Sigmund responded thoughtfully to each.

This event provided a valuable opportunity to deepen international perspectives, in line with Sophia University’s educational spirit of “For Others With Others.” Continued academic and cultural exchange with Germany is eagerly anticipated.