By Andy Coulson

Abbey Road, Guinness, Lime Bikes, TK Maxx, Stonehenge, Chelsea FC. All graced last week by Japan's kimono-clad, gentle-giant sumo wrestlers.

Tourists paused, jaws dropped. Londoners grinned. Social media lit up. And those lucky enough to bag tickets to the Grand Sumo at the Royal Albert Hall got more than a cultural showcase, they got a masterclass in soft power.

Because behind the viral joy was something more strategic. Something smarter. And our PM and his advisers should be paying attention.

Japanese Ambassador Hiroshi Suzuki, in post for barely a year, is quietly delivering what may be the most effective campaign of local-level diplomacy........

© LBC