Message from Ambassador Mori
2024/7/1
Consul General of Japan in New York
Ambassador MORI
short biography >>
Looking back at our recent activities, on May 11th of this year, the 3rd Japan Parade was held in New York City, drawing an impressive crowd of approximately 50,000 spectators, similar to last year. The event was a resounding success, and I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the stakeholders, companies, and participants who contributed to this achievement.
The parade showcased the rich diversity of Japanese culture and traditions that transcend age and genre. This year, we were honored to have Shingo Kunieda, the legendary former wheelchair tennis player, participate as Grand Marshal. The event featured a wide array of performances, including traditional mikoshi, taiko drumming, yosakoi and hanagasa dancing, martial arts, and even characters from "Demon Slayer." Additionally, participants from the local community, such as LGBTQ groups, prefectural associations, and university alumni associations, joined in the festivities.
Nearby, many visitors enjoyed the Japan Street Fair, which offered them Japanese cuisine at various food tents and activities like origami, yo-yo fishing, and calligraphy.
Through the past three parades, we have successfully highlighted the presence of Japanese culture and the Japanese American community within American society. This has not only enhanced Japan's visibility but also underscored the importance of the strong and positive relationship between Japan and the United States. We hope to continue energizing Japan from New York through opportunities like the Japan Parade, with the ongoing support and cooperation of everyone involved.
Furthermore, in April of this year, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida made an official visit to the United States and held a summit meeting with President Joe Biden. At a time when the international community is facing complex and diverse challenges, it is of great significance that the leaders of the United States and Japan, as global partners, expressed their determination to maintain and strengthen the international order toward peace and prosperity in the international community.
During his speech before Congress, Prime Minister Kishida expressed his gratitude to the people of Queens, the borough where he spent the first three years of elementary school at P.S. 20 and P.S. 13. This heartfelt acknowledgment highlights the foundational ties between local communities and the robust U.S.-Japan alliance we see today.
New York is a city that garners global attention in various fields, including finance, media, culture, arts, and fashion. As the Consulate General, we cherish our relationships with individuals excelling in these diverse areas. Leveraging New York's such unique position, we aim to promote Japanese products and to foster investment in Japan by organizing business and financial events.
Earlier this year, I visited Delaware in February and Pennsylvania in April, where I had meaningful discussions with their respective governors about promoting economic and cultural exchanges with Japan. In April, I also visited Buffalo, NY. I look forward to continuing my travels, building and strengthening friendships with people in different regions.
Ensuring the safety of Japanese citizens residing abroad is one of the Consulate General's most important responsibilities. Our entire staff is committed to ensuring your safety and peace of mind. This year, as the pivotal presidential election in the U.S. approaches, we will intensify our efforts to provide relevant information through consular emails, our website, and social media.
We deeply appreciate the cooperation and support of various Japanese and Japanese American organizations. Just to mention one example, in March, I visited Hamilton-Madison House in Manhattan, which provides mental health services to the Japanese community, and had the opportunity to learn about their care of socially vulnerable individuals. I express my deep respect and gratitude to the nonprofit for its long-standing support of the Japanese community.
We are sincerely grateful for your understanding of the Consulate General's activities, and for your continued support and cooperation.