Lithuania and Japan’s Gifu Prefecture Strengthen Cooperation in Healthy Aging and Scientific Research
Minister of Health Linas Kukuraitis today met with the Governor of Japan’s Gifu Prefecture, Yoshihide Esaki; the President of Gifu University, Kazuhiro Yoshida; the Ambassador of Japan to Lithuania, Shinsuke Shimizu; and other members of the Japanese delegation. The meeting discussed cooperation between the two countries, with particular focus on healthy and active ageing policies, scientific research, and partnerships between universities.
“We highly value the initiatives undertaken by Gifu Prefecture in the fields of healthy aging and longevity. These issues are particularly relevant to both of our countries, so we welcome the opportunity to learn more about the Gifu Governor’s project and to share our experience,” said Minister of Health Linas Kukuraitis.
Governor Y. Esaki and other members of the delegation presented a longevity support project being implemented in Gifu Prefecture and shared Japan’s experience in this field. Japan stands out for having one of the longest life expectancies in the world, making its accumulated experience in finding ways not only to extend life but also to maintain good health in older age highly relevant to Lithuania.
Vice Minister of Health Daniel Naumovas, sharing his impressions following his visit to Japan last month, highlighted the potential for cooperation between the two countries and opportunities to develop ties in the fields of health innovation, advanced clinical research, digitalization of healthcare, and artificial intelligence.
Another important topic discussed at the meeting was the development of academic ties between Lithuania and Gifu University. Gifu University President Kazuhiro Yoshida outlined the bilateral partnerships being established with Lithuanian higher education institutions and the prospects for further cooperation in cancer research, robotic surgery, and other fields. Gifu University has been cooperating with Vytautas Magnus University since 2012 and maintains ties with Kaunas University of Technology. It also plans to sign a cooperation agreement with the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. These partnerships provide a foundation for developing academic exchanges, joint research projects, and the sharing of expertise.
Lithuania and Gifu Prefecture share not only academic ties but also historical and cultural connections. One of the most significant is the legacy of Japanese diplomat Chiune Sugihara, who served as Vice-Consul in Kaunas in 1939–1940 and issued transit visas to thousands of Jewish refugees. The Sugihara Memorial Museum in the town of Yaotsu, Gifu Prefecture, helps raise awareness in Japan of Lithuania’s history and the diplomat’s courageous actions.
Last updated: 09-11-2026
Related news:
Centre of Registers takes swift action to address cybersecurity risks.
Dr A. Rapalavičius Has Taken Up the Position of Adviser to the Minister of Health
On 1 October, the Ministry of Health Begins Operating from Its New Office
Lithuania prepares for its Presidency of the Council of the EU: health agenda discussed in Brussels