Press Releases
Courtesy Call on Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs ONISHI by Japanese American Youth
On December 17, commencing at 10:20 a.m. for approximately 30 minutes, Mr. ONISHI Yohei, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, received a courtesy call by a delegation of Japanese American youth who were visiting Japan through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Program for Promoting Understanding of Japan, the Kakehashi Project. The summary is as follows:
- At the outset, Parliamentary Vice-Minister Onishi emphasized the importance of people-to-people exchanges in the development of Japan-U.S. relations and stated that he is proud of the achievements of Japanese Americans. He also encouraged the delegation to cherish the bonds they formed with the people they met during their visit. Furthermore, he expressed his hope that they would serve as a “Kakehashi” (bridge) connecting Japan and the United States, as well as Japan and the Japanese American community in the United States.
- In response, the delegation expressed their gratitude for the invitation to Japan and asked questions regarding areas of cooperation in future Japan-U.S. relations.
(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.