Public Diplomacy

In July of this year, the City of Willich in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, and the City of Marugame in Kagawa Prefecture established a Sister City relationship. Since then, the two cities have been building a friendly relationship through exchanges at the student and citizen levels. This report provides the background and future prospects of the　relationship between two cities.

Kamaishi City and Digne-les-Bains City will celebrate the 30th anniversary of their Sister City relationship next year. Since the beginning of this relationship, both cities have continued their exchange through lavender in cooperation with several companies, including L’OCCITANE JAPON K.K.

On July 18 and 19, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan conducted Diplomat’s Study Tour together with the City of Kitakyushu. 10 participants including Ambassadors and other representatives from 8 countries visited various sites and facilities. Regional attractions such as history, culture, food, local products, and industries were fully introduced to the diplomats.

Pottery originating from ancient Persia, known as Lusterware, was revived by a potter in Tajimi City, Gifu Prefecture. In July 2023, Ambassador Aikawa visited the city and exchanged views with Mayor Takagi of Tajimi City on exchange between Japan and Iran through the ceramic art.

In July, Premier Palaszczuk visited Japan. In Osaka, she exchanged views with Governor Yoshimura of Osaka Prefecture about the possibilities of expansion of relationships in trade, investment, culture and education. Consul General Gomakubo also visited Osaka to exchange views about economic and cultural exchange.