Implementation of FY2010 Local Staff Training in Japan
(Overview and Assessment)

1. Overview

(1) Among the nearly 5,400 local staff employed at Japan's embassies, consulates, and permanent missions overseas, 30 people who have been recognized for their particularly outstanding performance (see note) were invited to Japan to participate in a training held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan from February 21 to 25.

(Note) Total of 30 people: 7 from Asia, 3 from Oceania, 4 from North America, 4 from Latin America and the Caribbean, 8 from Europe, 2 from the Middle East, and 2 from Africa

(2) On February 21, the 30 trainees paid a courtesy call to Minister for Foreign Affairs Seiji Maehara, and received words of appreciation and encouragement from the Minister.

2. Assessment

(1) The training included lectures by the relevant bureaus and divisions of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (see note) and visits to the surrounding areas of Tokyo. The trainees deepened their understanding about the mechanisms and policies concerning the various tasks of Japan's diplomatic missions, and heard firsthand the latest know-how and information about Japan. It is hoped that the training deepens the knowledge of the 30 trainees, which will allow them to make further contributions to the missions' work and by extension further strengthen the activities of the diplomatic missions.

(Note) Lectures by Ministry senior officials and employees on management, consular affairs, public diplomacy, Japan's foreign policy, international cooperation, international legal affairs, and other topics; presentation by an external instructor on latest technologies; and more.

(2) It is hoped that such training will further strengthen the activities of Japan's diplomatic missions by increasing the capacities of participating local staff, as well as providing further incentives for all local staff of Japan's diplomatic missions to engage in their daily work at the frontlines of diplomacy.