Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida solidified economic and cultural connections with North Carolina during his visit on Friday. Japan is the largest source of foreign direct investment in the state, with over 200 Japanese companies employing more than 30,000 people. Kishida's visit included a historic lunch at the governor's mansion in Raleigh, where he highlighted the strong relationship between Japan and the United States.
During his time in North Carolina, Kishida visited benchmark Japanese companies, including a Honda Aircraft Co. production facility and a Toyota Motor Corp. electric and hybrid battery plant. These visits underscored the significant investments Japanese companies are making in the state, with expectations of creating thousands of jobs.
The prime minister's visit also included a cultural exchange component, with a focus on strengthening partnerships between Japan and the U.S. Chiaki Takagi, a Japanese studies lecturer, expressed optimism about the potential for increased cultural exchange and collaboration between the two countries.
The luncheon at the governor's mansion marked a historic occasion, as it was the first time a foreign head of state had visited the mansion since records began in 1891. Governor Roy Cooper emphasized the importance of the strong bond between Japan and North Carolina, highlighting shared interests and values.
At North Carolina State University, Kishida engaged with students studying Japanese, further promoting cultural understanding and educational exchange. The visit also included a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Durham, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Japan.
Overall, Kishida's visit to North Carolina served to strengthen economic ties, promote cultural exchange, and underscore the enduring partnership between Japan and the United States.
