Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Meets with Japanese Diet Members; Reaffirms Importance of U.S.-Japan Partnership

Honolulu – Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today met with members of the Japanese Diet to reaffirm the United States’ strong partnership with Japan and recognize our shared interests in the Pacific region.  They discussed economic relations between the U.S. and Japan, tourism, as well as current developments in Okinawa.  

“As the United States focuses on the Asia-Pacific region, the U.S.-Japan relationship is critically important for stability in Northeast Asia,” said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard.  "As we continue to draw down our military presence in the Middle East, the United States must ensure that appropriate resources are being invested in our presence in the Pacific.  Japan is not only a close friend of our country, but they are also a vital partner in the effort to maintain a peaceful, prosperous, and stable region.

"Hawai'i, in particular, continues to enjoy a very special relationship with Japan.  With the passing of Senator Daniel Inouye, it is important that all of us carry on the work that he did throughout his life, to ensure that the strong bond between our two countries endures.”

Video footage and photos from today’s meeting at the Honolulu Consulate of Japan are available here.

Attendees included Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, Toyoei Shigeeda (Consulate-General of Japan Honolulu), Kenji Wakamiya (Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense), and House of Councillors Members Yoshida Hiromi, Shimajiri Aiko, Matsuyama Masaji, Wakabayashi Kenta, and Horii Iwao.

###