6/12/2015

CONSUL-GENERAL OF JAPAN IN DETROIT COMMEMORATES JAPAN AMERICA SOCIETY MILESTONE DETROIT, Mich. – June 12, 2015 – Kazuyuki Katayama, Ph.D., the Consul-General of Japan in Detroit (Michigan and Ohio) welcomed the Japanese Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Kenichiro Sasae, and together attended the 25th Anniversary Celebration of the Japan America Society of Michigan and Southwestern Ontario on June 9. The event was held at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) and Ambassador Sasae served as the keynote speaker. In his speech, Ambassador Sasae highlighted the depth and strength of the U.S. – Japan relationship, and how this partnership has made enduring contributions to global peace, security and prosperity. He was also impressed by the development projects underway in the City of Detroit, which he inspected on that afternoon.The Japan America Society is a nonprofit, nonpolitical organization with a membership of individuals and corporations. It is dedicated to strengthening the ties of friendship between the Japanese people and the citizens of greater Detroit and Windsor.In recognition of the contributions to the mutual understanding and friendship among the two entities, the Consul-General of Japan in Detroit, Dr. Kazuyuki Katayama, has conferred upon the Japan America Society of Michigan and Southwest Ontario his official commendation on the occasion. “We are honored Ambassador Sasae was able to join us for this milestone event,” said Consul-General Katayama. “The Japan America Society and the Consulate-General of Japan in Detroit share the same mission and goals to promote better understanding of Japan and Japanese culture through educational and cultural programs.”The event also featured recognition of the 55th anniversary of Detroit’s sister city relationship with Toyota, Japan. A visit and performances by the Toyota Junior Orchestra is planned for later this summer in Ann Arbor and Detroit. A total of 27 Michigan cities have sister city arrangements with Japanese cities in addition to the Michigan-Shiga sister state-prefecture relationship.“There are more than 487 Japanese facilities in Michigan, employing more than 38,000 people,” added Consul-General Katayama. “Japan’s economic and cultural contributions to Michigan are significant, and we are pleased to help the Japan America Society celebrate this important milestone.” 25th Anniversary NEWS RELEASE.doc