VIP Reception held in Arizona

2024/2/28
On February 23, the Consulate General of Japan hosted a reception in Phoenix, Arizona, for Japanese business delegates and Arizona political and economic leaders.
 
Consul General Sone, in his opening remarks, praised Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) and Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) for their recent year’s progress and cooperation and further fostering Japan-U.S. economic ties for, including co-hosting the two-day Japanese delegation visit (February 22-23) in Arizona. He expressed his expectation that the economic and cultural relationship between Japan and Arizona will be further strengthened, as evidenced by the 40th anniversary of the "Arizona Matsuri" that was held on the same weekend.
 
The reception welcomed over 150 people, including the nearly 80 Japanese delegates that participated in the Arizona visitation program, government officials, business organizations, semiconductor companies, and Japanese entities that have already established a presence in Arizona. The guests included Senator Frank Carroll, Representative Justin Wilmeth, Representative David Cook, Tempe Mayor Corey Woods, and Goodyear Vice Mayor Laura Kaino. As a special guest, Atsuya Furuta, interim coach of the MLB Diamondbacks, also attended the event. The event gave a great opportunity for the guests to enjoy Japanese food, including seafood from Japan, and Japanese sake.

 
Opening remarks from Consul General Sone Representative Justin Wilmeth
Senator Frank Carroll Tempe Mayor Corey Woods
Mr. Atsuya Furuta, temporary coach of Arizona Diamondbacks Kagamiwari