Visitors from Japan will explore U.S. trends in energy and environmental regulations

Welcome 2016 participants

Kazutaka Nakagawa and Mitsuo Nagai will begin their year-long Global Government-to-Government Partnership (G3P) this month. Following an introductory tour of U.S. economic revitalization efforts in Greensboro, NC, Cincinnati, OH and Portland, OR, the two participants will immerse themselves in English-language training. These initial activities prepare them for individualized research projects, which are the capstone of the program.

Mr. Nagai serves as the Chief Official for Coastal Administration and Disaster Management in the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). Focusing on the effects of global warming and environmental regulations, he plans to visit multiple U.S. ports and harbors using what he learns to shape MLIT policy in Japan. Mr. Nakagawa is the current Assistant Director of Competition Enhancement in the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). Through visits to U.S. federal agencies, his research will expose him to trends in crude oil and shale gas exports, and the factors impacting these energy sources.

Current participants

Ashuri Matsuhashi, International Affairs Officer in Japan’s National Personnel Authority, is researching work-life balance issues at the Office of Personnel Management and with the State Department’s Work-Life Wellness Committee. During these placements, she will gain a better understanding of current policies and methods for work-life balance in the government and the private sector. Understanding the challenges and levels of achievement in different work environments will assist her in proposing similar measures in Japan.

Recently, Ms. Matsuhashi traveled to Colorado to speak at the International Women’s Day 2016 Seminar presented by World Denver. (Watch the NBC Channel 9 News coverage)

In addition to participating on a panel discussion, she interacted with experts in the field of human resources and work-life balance, including Kay Landen, World Denver board member and former human resources manager for AT&T and American Express. Ms. Matsuhashi’s Denver program also included meetings with the State Division of Personnel and Administration, the Denver Women’s Commission, and the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

From Japan’s National Police Agency, Teruyoshi Matsuda is in the U.S. to research the crime of stalking, including laws, investigation procedures, victim support, and criminal penalties. With guidance from the Department of Justice Office of Violence Against Women and the Stalking Resource Center, Mr. Matsuda will learn how law enforcement collaborates with other organizations and agencies to combat stalking and pools resources during challenging cases. Simultaneously, Mr. Matsuda is researching trends in driverless vehicles at the Department of Transportation. In his spare time he also lends his athletic skills to Meridian’s softball team.

Last year three participants attended Prime Minister Shinzō Abe’s historic address to a joint meeting of the U.S. Congress, the first Japanese head of state to do so. This event served as an important step in bolstering military, economic, and diplomatic relations between Japan and the U.S. It was also the first time our visitors had seen their Prime Minister in person.

In addition to their in-depth research on issues of mutual interest to the U.S. and Japan, such as current energy trends or work-life balance, cultural activities play a significant role in their understanding of American people and society. Some participants arrive with their families and share the unique experience with their spouse and children. Throughout the course of their program, they are exposed to all aspects of life in the U.S., which also enhances their understanding of the importance of U.S.-Japan bilateral relations. Their program passes quickly, but the impact of their experience is lifelong.

About G3P

The Global Government-to-Government Partnership (G3P) is a professional exchange program administered by the U.S. Department of State in cooperation with Meridian International Center. Throughout the course of 3-12 months, participants follow a professional training program, attend language courses, and participate in cross-cultural opportunities. The experience offers current and future leaders the opportunity to experience the richness and diversity of American political, economic, social, and cultural life. Once the program is complete the visitors return home to play major roles in the further development of their governments and civil society. The program is currently offered to Japan, though in the past it has included other countries.

For more information about G3P, please contact ebarry@meridian.org.