Countries & Regions

From October 16 to October 23, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan hosted the 13th Invitation Program for Young Leaders of FEALAC.

1. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan has been hosting this Program continuously since 2000, one year after FEALAC was established, in order to deepen the understanding on common issues between Asia and Latin America, and to strengthen the relationship among FEALAC member countries. The theme for this year’s program was “sustainable growth,” an issue of common concern for both Asia and Latin America.
2. On October 17, the FEALAC young leaders attended the opening meeting and received lectures on Japanese policies regarding FEALAC and the global environment. On October 18th, they were given an audience with Their Imperial Highnesses Prince and Princes Akishino. From October 18th to 20th, the young leaders visited Kitakyushu city, and paid a courtesy visit to Mr. Kenji Kitahashi, the mayor of Kitakyushu.
3. The FEALAC young leaders participated in the International Forum on “Future City” Initiative as well as in the International Conference on Future of Cities in Kitakyushu, and visited relevant facilities of the Yokohama Smart City Project, deepening their understanding on sustainable growth. On October 22nd, the participants made presentations on their findings.
4. On October 22nd, Mr. Hirotaka Ishihara, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, hosted a Farewell Reception. In his speech, Parliamentary Vice-Minister Ishihara stressed the significance of the opportunity for young leaders of Asia and Latin America, two of the most dynamic growth engines of the world economy, to come together and discuss issues on global challenges. In addition, Mr. Ishihara expressed that Japan will further promote cooperation with FEALAC member countries in pursuit of sustainable development.