The Next 50 Years: A Luncheon Discussion on Georgia-Japan Ties

Join business and government leaders for an interactive luncheon discussion on reinvigorating the historic Georgia-Japan commercial and cultural relationship from the grassroots up. 

BACKGROUND: 

The first Japanese company arrived in Georgia nearly 50 years ago, touching off a journey of shared prosperity and ever-deepening community engagement. The result? More than 600 Japanese firms creating 37,000+ Georgia jobs, along with better access to Japan’s market for homegrown companies like Coca-Cola, Aflac and Delta.

Recent bilateral trade tensions, however, have tested these foundations and raised questions about the future trajectory of a once-assured alliance.

With this as the backdrop, Georgia business, government and economic development leaders traveled to Japan in May to meet with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, JETRO, business associations, and companies across Japan with major investments in the South.

The Grassroots Exchange Network trip, underwritten by the Japan Foundation, coincided with a state visit by U.S. President Donald Trump, who became the first foreign leader to be received newly enthroned Reiwa Emperor. It also preceded the G20 Summit set to be held in Osaka this month. More relevant locally, this October will also see the annual SEUS-Japan annual conference come to Savannah

Join Global Atlanta, the Consulate General of Japan and the law firm of Miller & Martin to hear firsthand from participants about their visits to Tokyo, Osaka, Kyushu and Georgia sister cities of Kurobe and Osaki.

The luncheon will also include a Q&A and brainstorming session with the audience to determine next steps to reinvigorate Georgia-Japan ties with the next half-century in view. 

SPEAKERS: 

Introductory remarks:  

Takashi Shinozuka, Consul General of Japan to four states in the Southeast

Trip participant discussion: 

-Trevor Williams, Managing Editor, Global Atlanta 

-Al Hodge, founder of Hodge Consulting Services, a 40-year economic development veteran and vice chair of the Japan America Society of Georgia. 

-Blaine Williams, Manager of the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County