Press Releases
Courtesy Call on Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs ONISHI by Princess Delegates
On February 27, commencing at 11:50 a.m. for approximately 35 minutes, Mr. ONISHI Yohei, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, received the Princess Delegates from the United States, who were invited to Japan under the KAKEHASHI Project, one of Japan’s Friendship Ties Programs. A summary of the courtesy call is as follows.
- At the outset, Parliamentary Vice-Minister ONISHI welcomed the group, expressed his hope that the group selected through the Cherry Blossom Program would deepen their understanding of Japan through this visit. He further stated that people-to-people exchanges form the foundation of the strong Japan-U.S. relationship, and expressed his expectation that the delegation would become a “bridge” connecting Japan and the United States, contributing to the development of Japan-U.S. relations.
- The group expressed gratitude for the invitation to Japan and shared their aspirations for the visit. They also engaged in a lively exchange of views on the potential for further cooperation in areas such as the preservation of traditional culture and manufacturing.
(Reference1) KAKEHASHI Project
The purpose of KAKEHASHI Project is to increase 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) Princess Delegates
Princess Delegates are participants of an exchange program called “The Cherry Blossom Program.” This program takes place during the National Cherry Blossom Festival, a celebration of Japan-U.S. friendship, held annually in Washington D.C. from March to April. Princess Delegates are selected from each state to participate in various cultural programs.