In recognition of his honest and professional work, his contribution to strengthening intercultural cooperation, dialogue, and business relations between Latvia and Japan, and for his efforts in promoting Latvia in Japan, Mr Keizo Ueno, Executive Director of Riga Wood Japan, was awarded the prestigious Cross of Recognition by the President of the Republic of Latvia.

Let’s rewind to where it all started – the first meeting between Mr Keizo Ueno and Latvijas Finieris, which blossomed from a technical collaboration into a remarkable bridge of friendship between Japan and Latvia.

A Journey That Began with Curiosity

How and when did you begin working with Latvijas Finieris?

“It all began in 2000. Juris Biķis, then CEO of Latvijas Finieris, contacted me and asked me to inspect the company’s mills and offer guidance on improving yield and quality. I visited the mills in September and October of that year. As a Japanese plywood engineer, I approached this task with deep technical curiosity and found a company truly committed to progress.”

Did you have any prior connection with Latvia?

“Honestly, I didn’t even know where Latvia was. When I located it on a map, I remembered the news about the Baltic Way* – the human chain across the Baltic States. It stirred something in me – I felt I had to go.”

*The Baltic Way was a peaceful political demonstration that took place on 23 August 1989. During it, around two million people from the Baltic States joined hands to form a 600-kilometre human chain stretching from Tallinn through Riga to Vilnius, symbolising their unity in pursuit of independence.

A Partnership Takes Root

Could you share more about the establishment of Riga Wood Japan and its early years?

“Following my visit to Latvia in 2000, many representatives from Latvijas Finieris visited Japan multiple times to study our plywood technology and machinery. These visits weren’t just inspections – they were valuable opportunities for learning and meaningful exchange,” shares Mr Ueno.

This mutual curiosity and collaboration led to the founding of Riga Wood Japan. Symbolically, the company was established on 2 May 2004, coinciding with Latvia’s accession to the European Union – a proud milestone, marking a new chapter in international cooperation.

What are the future plans for Riga Wood Japan?

“With a leadership transition ahead, we are preparing to broaden our range of stable, high-demand products. Our aim is to introduce Latvijas Finieris plywood to more housebuilders and general contractors as a reliable structural material. In addition, we plan to ensure continued use of Latvijas Finieris birch plywood in specialist applications such as refrigerated ships, Shinkansen (high-speed train) floors, and truck flooring.”

Cultural Bridges Through Shared Values

From arranging student exchanges to supporting Latvia’s participation in EXPO 2025 Osaka, and giving talks at Lions Clubs and municipal chambers of commerce, Mr Ueno’s efforts span generations and sectors. One of the events he most enthusiastically promotes is the Latvian Song and Dance Festival, which he encourages all Japanese to experience.

How easy or challenging is it to work with people from different cultural backgrounds?

“Whether you’re in Latvia or Japan, plywood is plywood. The key isn’t language – it’s heart. To improve yield: don’t throw anything away – make use of every piece. To improve quality: don’t pass on defects – pass on your sincerity. These principles are universal in manufacturing. They’ve become the shared language that unites two very different cultures.”

What do you appreciate most about Latvia and its people?

“When I visited Riga in 2000, someone in the Old Town smiled at me and said ‘Arigatou’ – ‘thank you’ in Japanese. People took photos with me and welcomed me warmly. I fell in love with the country immediately.”

Tell us more about your efforts to build cultural bridges between the two countries.

“I want Latvians to love Japan, and for Japanese people to know and love Latvia. As Executive Director of the Japan–Latvia Society in Kansai, I support exchange programmes, offer scholarships, and assist visiting politicians, business leaders, and cultural figures from Latvia.”

Why are you in love with Latvia?

“Latvia overcame Soviet oppression to become a peaceful and safe country – just as Japan did after the Second World War. I was born in 1946 and saw the devastation of war first-hand. Latvia’s resilience and dedication to peace mirror Japan’s own journey. That’s why I love Latvia as deeply as I love my homeland.”