「歩こうアメリカ、語ろうニッポン」派遣団のミシシッピ州・ルイジアナ州訪問（報告）

　A delegation from the initiative “Walk in U.S., Talk on Japan”, organized by the Office of Prime Minister of Japan, visited Jackson, Mississippi, (November 13^th-15^th) and New Orleans, Louisiana, (November 15^th-17^th).  The delegation was led by Mr. Shotaro Oshima, former WTO Appellate Body Member and former Deputy Foreign Minister for Economic Affairs in Japan and included four other members with backgrounds in finance, global business consulting, energy trading, and sports promotion.  
During the visit, the delegation discussed the current state of Japan, how it is changing, its strengths and its appeal. Various topics were covered, including transportation infrastructure, sports, and ways of life. The visit created an opportunity for grassroots exchange of ideas and information on the Japan-U.S. alliance, Abenomics, and the 2020 Tokyo Olymipcs/Paralymics Games with people in local communities, ranging from students to community and business leaders. 
 Some of delegation’s activities during the visit are as follows:
　○　Mississippi: The delegation visited Governor Bryant and participated in panel discussions at Jackson State University and Jackson Preparatory School (co-hosted by the Japan-America Society of Mississippi)
　○　Louisiana:  The delegation received a briefing from the Center for Planning Excellence on flood risks in Louisiana and visited the Yakumo Japanese Garden in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. The delegation also held two panel discussions, one hosted by World Trade Center of New Orleans and one co-hosted by University of New Orleans, the New Orleans Japan Society, and the Japan Club of New Orleans.  They also met with the New Orleans Junior League and the New Orleans Citizens Diplomacy Council.
 

【Visiting Mississippi Governor Bryant】		【Panel Discussion at Jackson State University】		【Panel Discussion at Jackson Preparatory School】

 

【Visiting Yakumo Japanese Garden】		【Panel Discussion at World Trade Center of New Orleans】		【Panel Discussion at University of New Orleans】

Please visit Facebook Page for the “Walk in U.s., Talk on Japan” to find out more details.