Press Releases
Luncheon Hosted by Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs ERI with Participants of MOFA’s U.S. Forces Japan Orientation Program
March 24, 2026
On March 24, commencing at 0:15 p.m. for approximately 70 minutes, Ms. ERI Arfiya, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, hosted a luncheon with participants of the MOFA’s "U.S. Forces Japan Orientation Program". The overview is as follows:
- At the outset, Parliamentary Vice-Minister ERI welcomed the participants to the program and expressed her hope that through this program, participants would deepen their understanding of the importance of the Japan-U.S. Alliance amid the increasingly severe security environment surrounding Japan. She also conveyed appreciation for the unwavering commitment of the U.S. Forces Japan to the Japan-U.S. Alliance and expressed her desire to work together to further strengthen the alliance.
- In response, the U.S. representative expressed gratitude for the invitation and stated that the opportunity to exchange views with Parliamentary Vice-Minister ERI and members of the Diet was extremely meaningful, providing a multilayered understanding of Japan-U.S. relations. The representative also emphasized the importance of their relationship with Japan and expressed their commitment to further strengthening cooperation in various fields.
(Reference) MOFA’s "U.S. Forces Japan Orientation Program"
- This week-long program provides a series of lectures and cultural classes for approximately 20 U.S. Forces Japan military personnel and civilians in Tokyo and other regions.
- The program aims to enhance participants’ understanding of Japanese politics and culture, the security environment surrounding Japan, and relations with local communities. Thereby, it seeks to promote policies and guidance for U.S. military personnel, which are based on a deep understanding of Japan at the U.S. Forces headquarters and various facilities nationwide.
- The program has been held every year since 1995 (except during the COVID times).