Public Diplomacy

On November 28 and 29, 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan conducted Diplomat’s Study Tour together with Shizuoka Prefecture with the participation of 14 ambassadors and others from 11 countries. Under the theme of “Exploring the cultural wonders and attractions of Shizuoka Prefecture”, the participants expanded their knowledge of the diverse charms including its history, culture and arts, cuisine, and nature and manufacturing industries of Shizuoka Prefecture, which had been designated as the Culture City of East Asia 2023.

On October 30 and 31, 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan conducted Diplomats' Study Tour together with Tokushima Prefecture with the participation of 16 ambassadors and others from 12 countries. Participants visited facilities related to Tokushima Prefecture’s history, culture, and industry, and exchanged views with people　concerned under the theme of “History of Tokushima Prefecture and progressive efforts conducted by Tokushima Prefecture to achieve SDGs”.

On October 29, 2023, "Festival of The Most Beautiful Villages in Japan 2023" was held at TOKYO TORCH PARK nearby Tokyo Station, by the NPO "The Most Beautiful Village in Japan" Coalition. Japanese regional culture and traditions, local products were introduced to participants.

Mr. Paul Koren (from the Netherlands) works as a CIR at Koriyama City Office in Fukushima Prefecture. He contributes to the internationalization of the city by editing English translation and notation guidelines for the city. He also introduced Koriyama's local products to participants at the "Regional Promotion Seminar" held by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Koriyama City, and other local governments including Koriyama City in October, 2023.

On October2023，a reception was held at the residence of Ambassador of Japan to France, to promote local food and products of Harima area, Hyogo Prefecture, as well as local sake designated as “Geographical Indication (GI) Harima”.

An exchange through art paintings by elementary school students between Tsuzuki Ward, Yokohama City and Botswana had begun with the 4th African Development Conference(TICAD IV) held in Yokohama in 2008. An online interaction of children in Tsuzuki ward and Botswana, and Children's Art Paintings Exchange Exhibition were held to commemorate the 10th anniversary of this exchange.