Tokyo Shimbun October 12, 2007

Chunichi Shimbun October 13, 2007

（English translation）

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 　

Headline:

This man

−Mr. Haruo Endo, who received the 1^st Class Order from Oman in

appreciation for his contribution to the industrial development

−The closest Arab country to Japan, in view of its landscape and people’s concern towards others

Body Text:

The Sultanate of Oman, located at the southeastern tip of the Arabian Peninsular and

with population of 2.5 million.

He was awarded the HM Sultan Qaboos Order for Culture, Science and Arts (1^st degree) in appreciation of his contribution to the industrial development and promotion of mutual exchange.

Having been working with Maruzen Oil (now Cosmo Oil), he traveled around the Gulf countries. After his retirement, he applied and joined JICA as an expert to be dispatched to Oman. He was then ready to work in any Gulf country. However, he was fascinated by Oman during his four year stay.

He was especially faci8nated by its national character. He admires Omani concern towards other people unrivaled in the Middle East where some are of aggressive personality. As for landscape, Oman has not only desert but also mountain higher than 3000 meters where snow falls and beautiful long coastline. It is one reason why he calls Oman “the closest Arab country to Japan”.

He has given to Japanese companies his advice on investment to Oman and supported the Omani students in Japan. His low-profile activity that does not pay even one yen was rewarded by the medal, weighing four kilograms including fancy box.

One of the organizers of the award celebration party is Yasuo Fukuda, Prime Minister of Japan, who is his junior at Maruzen Oil. It was before the former Prime Minister resigned He asked Fukuda to become an organizer. He never imagined tahta Fukuda would be elected Prime Minister.

Mr. Endo wonders “ Could he attend the party?”

He originated from Niigata prefecture. He is living in Yokohama. 74 years old.