Implementation of FY2011 Local Staff Training in Japan
(Overview and Assessment)

October 26, 2011

1. Overview

(1) Among the approximately 5,400 local staff employed at Japan's overseas missions(embassies, consulates, and permanent missions), 21 members who have been recognized for their particularly outstanding performance (note 1) participated in a training held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan from October 16 to 23.

(Note 1) Total of 21 members: 6 from Asia, 1 from Oceania, 4 from North America, 2 from Latin America and the Caribbean, 5 from Europe, 1 from the Middle East, and 2 from Africa

(2) The training included various lectures by the relevant bureaus and divisions of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Note 2) and visits to the surrounding areas of Tokyo. On October 17, the 21 trainees paid a courtesy call on Mr. Koichiro Gemba, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, and received words of appreciation and encouragement from the Minister.

(Note 2) Lectures by Ministry senior and other officials and external instructors on administrative works, consular affairs, public diplomacy, Japan's foreign policy, international law, etc.

2. Assessment

(1) The trainees deepened their understanding of the mechanisms and policies concerning the various tasks of Japan's overseas missions, and acquired firsthand the latest knowledge and information about Japan. It is expected that the training will lead to their further contributions to the missions' work and accordingly further strengthening of the activities of the overseas missions.

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