I don’t know if ‘gaun yersel, yer excellency’ translates into Japanese but the salutation is on the lips of many a Glaswegian after Hiroshi Suzuki’s visit to the city. Japan’s ambassador to the Court of St James’s has been love-bombing the United Kingdom since his appointment in 2024, making his way around the country with his little Paddington Bear stuffed toy, visiting British landmarks, sampling regional delicacies and even treating us to some sing-songs.

Suzuki has captured hearts and headlines in one of the most effective public diplomacy campaigns we’ve seen in a long time

Suzuki has captured hearts and headlines in one of the most effective public diplomacy campaigns we’ve seen in a long time

On paper, that is what ambassadors are supposed to do, but as Suzuki’s visit to Glasgow illustrates, this is an emissary who goes far beyond diplomatic formalities. He gives the distinct impression of actually liking British culture and enjoying his opportunity to celebrate it.

His sojourn in Dear Green Place has seen him admire Dali’s ‘Christ of St John of the Cross’ in Kelvingrove Art Gallery, visit the traffic-cone crowned Duke of Wellington statue in Royal Exchange Square, and feast on chicken........

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