Albuquerque Receives Treasures from the East - August 15, 2006

Minister Nikai and Mayor Chavez

stand in front of one of the

14 ancient stone sculptures

that will eventully be placed

in the Japanese Gardens.

Minister Nikai, Mayor Chavez,

and Hoshi, the Japanese Gardens curator,

display the newest gift to the

City of Albuquerque; a picture

of the glamorous Lotus.

Minister Nikai and the

Japanese delegation are

presented with a memorable

Tricentennial Poster.

Mayor Chavez shows Minister Nikai

the Lotus Pond at the

Botanic Gardens.

On Tuesday, Albuquerque received a special visit from Toshihiro Nikai, Japanese Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry. While in town, Minister Nikai attended the unveiling of several priceless ancient sculptures, which are on loan to the Botanic Gardens.

Mayor Martin Chavez greeted Minister Nikai at the Botanic Gardens to unveil the priceless Ancient Chinese Ming Dynasty and Korean stone statues, which will be placed in the new Japanese Garden.

The 14 statues include eight from the Chinese Ming Dynasty (circa 1368-1644), and six from the Korean Lee Dynasty (circa 1392).

The Japanese Gardens are scheduled to open in late 2007.

Earlier in the day, Minister Nikai and Mayor Chavez discussed a major investment that Japan plans to make in the Duke City.