Explore U.S.-Japan issues with former Japanese ambassador

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Members of the public will have a chance to engage in a two-way dialogue with Japanese citizens of diverse backgrounds during a panel discussion at Western Michigan University being led by the Honorable Shuji Shimokoji, former ambassador of Japan to Panama and Venezuela.

The event, "Walk in U.S., Talk on Japan," will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 16, in 1035 Fetzer Center and conclude with a reception.

It is being co-organized by the Consulate General of Japan in Detroit and WMU's Soga Japan Center. Admission is free, compliments of Japan's Office of the Prime Minister. Free parking will be available in Lot 72F next to the Fetzer Center.

About the event

In addition to Shimokoji, the panel will include a retired businessman from the auto industry, a young CEO and owner of a travel company, a retired air force general in Japan's Ministry of Defense, and a Shizuoka University student.

Panel members will be ready to discuss issues related to Japan's society, business, education, security, politics and economy. Those attending are invited to ask questions and present their viewpoints.

The goal of "Walk in U.S., Talk on Japan" is to increase awareness about various issues related to Japan in the United States and further develop the U.S.-Japan relationship through people-to-people diplomacy.

It is part of a series of dialogues supported by the Japanese prime minister's Cabinet Office. For the series, teams of Japanese citizens with diverse backgrounds, led by former, high-ranking Japanese diplomats, are traveling to the United States to share their perspectives and encourage open discussions with the local communities.

For more information, visit the Soga Japan Center at wmich.edu/japancenter or call the center at (269) 387-5890.