Noke Masaki, Japan’s Ambassador to Egypt, has awarded the Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendation to Mohamed El Sayed, President of the Egyptian Aikido Association.
The Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendation is awarded to individuals and groups around the world who have accomplished outstanding achievements and contributions in promoting friendship between Japan and their respective countries.
El Sayed received the award in recognition of his extensive efforts to promote the Japanese martial art of Aikido in Egypt. He has also worked towards creating friendly relations between Japan and Egypt.
He has devoted himself to the practice since taking it up in 1980, and was the first practitioner in the Middle East to acquire the “Sixth Degree” Black Belt, a feat he achieved in 2016.
El Sayed is currently the only instructor in the Middle East who is allowed to use the title “Shihan” (senior instructor) from the Aikikai Foundation in Japan. He also plays an important role as the Head of Aikido committee at the Egyptian Federation of Judo, Aikido and Sumo.
Not only this, El Sayed has a long career as a trainer and supervisor of Aikido at several sporting clubs. He contributed to establishing 9 Dojo facilities, where martial arts are practiced, across Egypt. These contributions have left a remarkable footprint in the development of Aikido in Egypt.
Ambassador Noke extended his sincere appreciation to El Sayed for his dedication and contribution to promote Aikido in Egypt, which he noted has lead to a deeper understanding of Japan and its culture in Egypt.
El Sayed expressed his appreciation for the Commendation, emphasising his eagerness to continue acting as a bridge between Japan and Egypt, especially in the field of sports.
Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art, developed during the 1920s, which aims to promote both physical and mental wellness. It is now practiced in 140 countries.
