Japan serves eel at Vatican embassy event while opposing new eel trade rules

Japan’s embassy to the Vatican organized a diplomatic dinner in Rome featuring traditional kabayaki eel, prepared by fourth-generation chef Jin Ogata from Kitakyushu. Ambassador Koji Abe used the occasion to state that Japanese eels are “not at risk of extinction” and to outline Japan’s opposition to a recent European Union and Panama proposal to extend CITES trade restrictions to all eel species. The proposal was rejected after Japan’s objection at the CITES conference.

Attending diplomats, including Hungary’s ambassador Peter Kveck, sampled eel seasoned with wine, fish sauce and honey, a recipe linked to ancient Roman cuisine, and praised its flavor and health benefits. The event illustrates Japan’s use of culinary diplomacy to influence global trade policy on endangered species and reflects ongoing disputes over eel conservation measures.