Japan's Official Development Assistance White Paper 2011
(4) Promotion of Discussion and Dialogue
MOFA reoriented the meeting of the Advisory Council on International Development, which had been held under the advisement of the Minister for Foreign Affairs, toward a better direction, establishing a forum for representatives of the business circle, NGOs, and international organizations, as well as experts engaged in development cooperation with MOFA to discuss basic development cooperation policies on an equal footing and from a wide perspective. The Development Cooperation Forum is to be to encourage development cooperation more effective and efficient, as well as to strengthen the participation of citizens in development cooperation and to deepen understanding of ODA. MOFA is currently preparing the first forum to be held in 2012. In addition, "Discussions on International Cooperation", a forum for a dialogue between MOFA and individuals, who have an interest in the nature of diplomacy and ODA, while introducing trends in international cooperation and Japan's efforts, take place both in Tokyo and other regions each year.
JICA utilizes its International Centers and Branch Offices in local regions to promote locally born international cooperation and revitalize local regions, while holding roundtables and lectures with representatives from local industries and governments, experts, representatives, local universities, and school officials.