Tunisian Ambassador Inaugurates Monumental Mosaic in Oita Prefecture, Japan

On May 26, 2026, Tunisian Ambassador Ahmed Chafra presided over the inauguration ceremony of a monumental mosaic from the Tunisian pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai, marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Tunisia and Japan. The event took place in Oita Prefecture, where the ambassador was on a working visit.

The Mosaic's Journey

The mosaic, titled "The Olive Tree of Echraf," is currently on display at the Oita Prefectural Art Museum until May 31. After its temporary exhibition, it will be permanently transferred to Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University.

A Symbol of Peace and Tunisian Heritage

The mosaic, measuring approximately 40 square meters, was created by artisans from the city of El Jem using over 600,000 carefully selected and assembled pieces of colored stone. The artwork took three months to complete and is a tribute to the olive tree, a universal symbol of peace. The olive tree of Echraf, estimated to be around 2,500 years old, is considered the oldest and largest olive tree in Tunisia, with roots dating back to the Phoenician era.

A Cultural Exchange Initiative

During the inauguration ceremony, Ambassador Ahmed Chafra expressed his hope that this cultural initiative would strengthen human and cultural exchanges between Tunisia and Japan, while consolidating the bonds of friendship and mutual understanding between the two nations.

Key Attendees

The ceremony was attended by several local Japanese officials, representatives from the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Honorary Consul of the Tunisian Republic in Osaka, and the President of the Kyushu-Tunisia Friendship Association.

This monumental mosaic is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Tunisia and its deep historical ties with Japan. As it travels to its new home at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, it will serve as a symbol of the enduring friendship between the two nations.