Exchange of Notes between the Government of Japan and the Government of the U.S.A. concerning Cooperation for the Implementation of the Mansfield Fellowship Program

21 August 1996

1. An exchange of Notes between the Government of Japan and the Government of the U.S.A. to confirm the understanding concerning cooperation for the implementation of the Mike Mansfield Fellowship Program took place on August 21 (Wed) at the Foreign Ministry in Tokyo between Mr. Sadayuki Hayashi, Japanese Vice Foreign Minister, and Mr. Rust Deming, U.S. Charge d'Affaires ad interim to Japan.
   
   
2. The gist of the understanding is as follows:
   
   

   (1)	This Program, which is to be implemented pursuant to the Mike Mansfield Fellowship Act of the U.S.A., is intended to develop a new generation of U.S. Government officials with in-depth knowledge of the politics, economy and culture of Japan. Up to ten officials will to be selected each year for the two-year fellowship: in the first year, they will learn the language, politics and economy of Japan in the U.S., and in the second year, they will be placed in Japanese Government host ministries and agencies to learn about the government and its organizational culture; build professional relationships; and gain practical knowledge.
   (2)	The two Governments will extend their fullest cooperation for the implementation of the Program.
   (3)	The Government of the U.S. will make grants, subject to the availability of funds, take necessary measures to oblige the Fellows to comply with all relevant Japanese laws and regulations and with instructions regarding classified information, etc., and in case of non-compliance, take appropriate measures.
   (4)	The Government of Japan will make best efforts to ensure appropriate placements for them so that they will learn about the government and its organizational culture, build professional relationships, and gain practical knowledge. It will also grant appropriate visas for them.

   
   
3. The purpose of the Program is to make U.S. policies toward Japan more efficient and effective by developing a new generation of U.S. Government officials with in-depth knowledge of the administration, politics, economy and culture of Japan. It will be highly significant to have more U.S. government officials with a deep understanding of Japan's administrative system and wide-ranging personal relationships for the smooth implementation of official work between the two Governments and for further development of friendly relations between them.
   
   
4. The first fellows, seven in number, have already started their training in Japanese, etc. in Washington D.C., since September last year. They will come to Japan toward the end of August this year, receive one week's orientation at the National Personnel Authority from September 9, and be placed in their respective host bodies from September 17.