Statement by the Press Secretary on the Appointment of Mr. Thomas Foley as New U.S. Ambassador to Japan

September 2, 1997

1. The Government of Japan welcomes the appointment of Mr. Thomas Foley as the new U.S. Ambassador to Japan.
   
   
2. Mr. Foley has a brilliant career: He served as a Member of the House of Representatives of the U.S. Congress for a long time, and in particular from 1989 to 1995, served as Speaker of the House of Representatives. His wisdom and knowledge are widely respected, even since he left the political world. Mr. Foley was appointed as Chairman of the Presidential Council for Foreign Information in January 1996 and he is said to have close ties with President Clinton and other leaders in the present administration. Japan welcomes the appointment of such a "high caliber ambassador" as evidence that the Clinton Administration continues to attach importance to its relations with Japan.
   
   
3. As regards his relationship with Japan, Mr. Foley participated in a private conference on Japan-U.S. relations in 1969 when he was a Member of the House of Representatives, and since 1971 has visited Japan and taken part in many exchange programs between Japan-U.S. politicians. He has also made efforts to invite Japanese Government leaders and Diet members to the U.S., deepening his understanding of Japan and playing a great role in promoting dialogue between Japan and the U.S. In April 1996, the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun with Paulownia Flowers was conferred upon Mr. Foley for his long-time contribution to the promotion of dialogue between Japan and the U.S. and of understanding of Japan in the U.S. According to news reports, Mr. Foley himself is delighted with this appointment. The Government of Japan hopes that Mr. Foley will play an active role in further promoting friendly and cooperative relations between Japan and the U.S. when he assumes his post.
   
   
4. Ambassador Walter Mondale, who has already left his post, made great contributions to the promotion of Japan-U.S. relations for more than three years after taking office in September 1993. The Government of Japan pays tribute to his achievements. As Mr. Foley's appointment will have to be confirmed by the Senate, it is likely to take some time before he actually assumes his post.