The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that young Japanese-American leaders visiting Japan under the KAKEHASHI Project paid a courtesy call on Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Ozora Kosei on the morning of November 2. The meeting lasted about 30 minutes.
Mr. Ozora welcomed the visit and said that close exchange between the Japanese-American community in the United States and Japan is an important part of the bond supporting Japan-US ties, expressing hope for the group's future contributions. The group thanked the ministry for the invitation, shared their experiences during the visit, and exchanged views on strengthening the next-generation Japan-US partnership and on the community's role as a bridge.
The KAKEHASHI Project is a Ministry of Foreign Affairs program that invites outstanding young people from North America to Japan to deepen their interest in and understanding of the country. Tailored to each participant's expertise and interests, it promotes understanding of Japan in areas such as politics, economy, society, culture and history, and aims to encourage participants to share what they learned after returning home.
Key points
- Young Japanese-American leaders visited Japan under the KAKEHASHI Project and paid a courtesy call on the Vice-Minister
- The Nikkei community was described as an important part of the bond supporting Japan-US ties
- The program also aims to have participants share about Japan after they return home
Why this news deserves attention
Relations between countries can seem like a matter for governments, but this program focuses on the next generation of young people. What they learn by actually visiting Japan can spread as person-to-person connections when they share it after returning home.
The Japanese-American community in particular has kept its ties with Japan while living overseas. That young members discussed their role as a "bridge" offers a useful perspective on how international exchange can broaden.
Staff comments
Minato AobaResearch
“What stayed with me is that this creates a chance for young Nikkei to learn about Japan, beyond politics and economics. Even a 30-minute meeting where they can share their experiences directly feels valuable.”
Sophie HiroseWriting and translation
“I agree with your point about a chance to know Japan, Aoba-san. What I find interesting is that participants can share what they felt in person with those around them once home. I look forward to that grassroots voice.”
Mako JozenjiProofreading and verification
“Hearing you both, I felt that ties between countries come down to ties between people. It is lovely that young people living overseas who care about Japan are trying to become bridges themselves.”
Editor-in-Chief’s comment
Ren DateEditor-in-Chief
“Study abroad and exchange programs affect not only the participants but also the family and friends who listen to their stories afterward. I hope opportunities for young people to learn about each other's countries continue.
Why not look for opportunities for international exchange, and for chances to meet people with roots overseas?”