Public Diplomacy

On October 30 and 31, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan conducted a Diplomats’ Study Tour together with Bizen City and Setouchi City, with the participation of 13 ambassadors and others from 11 countries. Under the theme of “Experience the Timeless Art of Craftmanship,” the program presented the diverse attractions of Bizen and Setouchi cities to the diplomatic corps, offering opportunities to appreciate historical artifacts such as Bizen Pottery and Bizen Sword, as well as to experience hands-on pottery-making.

On November 10, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted the Regional Promotion Seminar FY 2025 in Tokyo, jointly with the local governments of Fukui Prefecture, Masuda City of Shimane Prefecture, Hamada City of Shimane Prefecture and Karuizawa Town of Nagano Prefecture. Approximately 85 guests, including members of the diplomatic corps in Japan, attended the seminar. Each local government gave a presentation to the participants highlighting its unique features such as regional industries, tourism, local products, traditional performing arts. They also showcased various regional attractions through booth displays and stage performances.

Kagoshima Prefecture is actively working to diversify its export destinations for agricultural, forestry, and fishery products, with a particular focus on the promising Middle Eastern market. As part of this effort, Governor Shiota visited Dubai (UAE) and Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) in October to promote prefectural products such as buri (yellowtail), wagyu beef, and tea. In Dubai, a reception was held at the Consul General's residence, and in Riyadh, the governor and his delegation participated in a food event at a local supermarket. The visit proved successful, with some yielding concrete business negotiations.

In August 2025, a delegation from Kusatsu City in Shiga Pref. visited Pontiac in Michigan, USA. This bond traces its origin to the sister-state relationship established in 1968, rooted in their shared connection to blessings of their lakes. Over the years, Shiga and Michigan have deepened their cooperation across many fields, including environmental protection, education, and youth exchanges. Today, 14 of Michigan’s 27 sister-city relationships are with municipalities in Shiga, making this partnership a successful example of “Lake Diplomacy.” The friendships between Shiga and Michigan, and Kusatsu and Pontiac, stand as a heartfelt reminder that grassroots exchange continues to shape the future of diplomacy.