Chapter 4
Japan's Diplomacy Open to the Public
3 Cooperation with Emigrants and Japanese Descendants (Nikkei)
The migration of Japanese nationals overseas began with the first voyage to Hawaii in 1868. There are approximately five million overseas Japanese and Japanese descendants (Nikkei) around the world, with especially large numbers residing in North, Central, and South America. They make a significant contribution to the development of their countries of residence in various fields, including politics, economy, education, and culture, and at the same time, they act as a bridge between Japan and those countries in developing close relations.
Together with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), MOFA provides cooperation in Central and South America, where approximately 3.1 million Nikkei live. Various forms of assistance are offered, including welfare support for aging emigrants, training in Japan for Nikkei people, and dispatch of volunteers to the local Nikkei communities. In such ways, MOFA is working to further strengthen connections with Nikkei communities.
In addition, invitation programs to Japan for current Nikkei leaders and young Nikkei who will be future leaders in various fields, and from various countries and regions, have been carried out in North, Central, and South America. Furthermore, efforts are underway to strengthen relations with Nikkei people in these regions through close cooperation between the diplomatic missions in each country and Nikkei communities, including actively creating opportunities for Japanese dignitaries from Japan to meet with Nikkei persons during their visits to these countries.
In October 2024, the 64th Convention of Nikkei and Japanese Abroad was held in person in Japan. Foreign Minister Iwaya hosted the welcome reception, engaging with the Nikkei attendees of many generations. MOFA intends to further strengthen collaboration with Nikkei communities in the future.