Japan-United States of America Relations
Courtesy Call on Special Advisor to the Prime Minister OUE by Japanese American Youth
On December 16, commencing at 3:00 p.m. for approximately 30 minutes, Mr. OUE Sadamasa, Special Advisor to the Prime Minister, received a courtesy call from a delegation of Japanese American youth visiting Japan under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Program for Promoting Understanding of Japan, the Kakehashi Project, upon the recommendation of the Embassy and Consulates-General of Japan in the United States and the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL). The summary is as follows:
- At the outset, Special Advisor OUE welcomed the delegation to Japan and stated that the Japan-U.S. Alliance is important not only for Japan but also for peace and stability in the region. He also added that the Alliance plays a vital role in the field of security, but also in a wide range of areas, including the economy, education, science and technology, and culture.
- Special Advisor OUE further expressed his hope that their visits to Hiroshima and Okinawa had deepened their understanding of Japan by providing opportunities to learn about the realities of the atomic bombings and the history of Okinawa. He further stated his expectation that they would continue to contribute, as “Kakehashi” (a bridge), to connecting Japan and the United States as well as the Japanese people and Japanese Americans after returning home.
- The delegation expressed their gratitude for the invitation to Japan and posed Special Advisor OUE questions regarding the role of younger generations in strengthening the Japan-U.S. Alliance and advancing nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.
(Reference1) KAKEHASHI Project
The purpose of KAKEHASHI Project is to increase the interest in and understanding of Japan among outstanding young leaders in the North American region. By having them engage in activities that make the most of their visit experience, it aims to foster supporters and experts of Japan. The project promotes participants' understanding of Japan's politics, economy, society, culture, history, and foreign policy in accordance with their areas of expertise and interest and enhances their external communication about Japan.
(Reference2) JACL : Japanese American Citizens League
JACL is the oldest and largest Asian-American organization, which is established in 1929. It works to preserve the cultural heritage and value of Japanese Americans, defend the human and civil rights of all Americans and eliminate social injustice for all.