The United States continues to work tirelessly with our East Asian and Pacific allies and partners to strengthen cooperation and foster new relationships to address security threats and increase U.S. economic opportunities. And 2017 was a crucial year for U.S. engagement with the Indo-Pacific. Here is Acting Assistant Secretary Susan Thornton’s perspective in her latest …
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On December 27, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson published an editorial in The New York Times outlining the challenges and accomplishments of the past year. Secretary Tillerson wrote, “I am proud of what our State Department and Agency for International Development teams around the world have accomplished this year, and our progress will continue in …
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December 21, 2017 On behalf of President Trump and the people of the United States, I would like to send warm wishes to His Imperial Majesty on the occasion of his 84th birthday this December 23, and congratulate Japan on this national day of celebration. The President and I were truly honored to visit Japan …
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Secretary of State Rex Tillerson spoke on “Meeting the Foreign Policy Challenges of 2017 and Beyond” at the 2017 Atlantic Council-Korea Foundation Forum on Dec. 12 in Washington, DC. Reflecting on the past 11 months, Secretary Tillerson outlined many of President Trump’s foreign policy priorities around the world. Secretary Tillerson concluded by saying, “This is …
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Ambassador Bill Hagerty hosted a reception on Dec. 5 at his residence to celebrate the partnership and progress of the TOMODACHI Initiative, with approximately 140 guests including TOMODACHI donors, supporters, and alumni. The Ambassador underscored the important role donors play in bilateral exchanges that strengthen the Alliance. He welcomed former Ambassador to Japan John Roos, …
Read More» Press Statement Rex W. Tillerson Secretary of State Washington, DC November 28, 2017 The United States strongly condemns North Korea’s launch of what is likely an intercontinental ballistic missile into the Sea of Japan, indiscriminately threatening its neighbors, the region and global stability. The D.P.R.K.’s relentless pursuit of nuclear weapons and the means to deliver …
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Secretary of State Rex Tillerson gave keynote remarks at the Grand Challenges Annual Meeting on October 4 in Washington, D.C. Secretary Tillerson highlighted such programs as the President’s Emergency Fund for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA). Summary on DipNote Full text of Secretary Tillerson’s remarks Grand Challenges …
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“The United States and Japan will continue our shared resolve to protect our citizens and work for security and stability in northeast Asia. Our conversations today reaffirmed that we are stronger and more secure when we work together, and we will continue that course of action.” – Secretary Tillerson. Remarks at the 2+2 Press …
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Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is traveling to Manila, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur August 5–9.
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At the launch of the State Department’s latest Trafficking in Persons report, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said: “Human trafficking is one of the most tragic human rights issues of our time. It splinters families, distorts global markets, undermines the rule of law, and spurs other transnational criminal activity. It threatens public safety and national …
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Secretary of State Rex Tillerson hosted the Foreign Ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations on May 4 at the Department of State for a special U.S.-ASEAN Foreign Ministers meeting. The event commemorated the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the U.S. and ASEAN, and reinforced our strategic partnership. The meeting followed the 30th …
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Secretary of State Rex Tillerson met with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida, and reaffirmed the strength of the U.S.-Japan alliance during his first visit to Japan. Remarks With Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida Before Their Meeting Remarks With Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe Before Their Meeting Press Availability With Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida The U.S.-Japan Alliance: The Cornerstone for Stability in the Asia Pacific (via Department of State Official Blog “DipNote”) Tillerson visits Japan on first trip to Asia (via ShareAmerica)
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Secretary of State Rex Tillerson traveled to Bonn, Germany February 15-17 for the G-20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. This was his first official trip as Secretary of State. The G-20 is a key forum for international economic cooperation that includes economies representing over 80% of global GDP. • See more on www.state.gov
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At the G-20 foreign ministers’ meeting in Bonn, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida, and South Korean Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se discussed North Korea’s recent ballistic missile test. The leaders noted North Korea’s flagrant disregard for multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions that expressly prohibit its ballistic missile and nuclear programs. In …
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Secretary of State Rex Tillerson delivered remarks to employees at the State Department on Feb. 2. Secretary Tillerson said, “I ask that you join me in upholding high standards of ethics and professionalism, committing to personal accountability and honesty, and respecting your colleagues.” • See full text and video on State.gov
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Rex Tillerson, a globe-trotting oil executive and engineer, is the new U.S. secretary of state and chief foreign affairs adviser to President Trump. He was confirmed February 1 as the 69th secretary of state. Tillerson is no stranger to Washington. He was a trustee of the Center for Strategic and International Studies and vice chairman …
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U.S. Ambassador to Japan Caroline Kennedy thanks the people of Japan in her farewell message. Video Transcript
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During her three years in Japan, Ambassador Kennedy has traveled to many parts of the country, enjoying the beautiful scenery, learning about local traditions and culture, participating in events to strengthen U.S.-Japan ties, talking with people from all walks of life, and engaging with hundreds of students and children. In the process, she’s made many, …
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On December 27, President Barack Obama and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe made an historic visit to Pearl Harbor.
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Prime Minister Abe’s visit to Pearl Harbor with President Obama is a tribute to the power of reconciliation and the enduring friendship between the United States and Japan.
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Ambassador Kennedy and U.S. Mission Japan staff in Tokyo, Sapporo, Nagoya, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Naha got into the holiday spirit and showed off their dance moves. Check out our rendition of the “Koi Dance” (Love Dance) from one of the most popular TV shows in Japan this season. Cover performance by volunteer musicians
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This is the largest return of land by the United States to Japan in more than 30 years, and it represents more than 20% of the land and facilities administered by U.S. Forces in Okinawa.
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Ambassador Caroline Kennedy hosted female Japanese and American leaders, including Instagram Chief Operating Officer Marne Levine, at a reception at her residence in support of the World Assembly for Women.
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Ambassador Caroline Kennedy paid a visit to Ochanomizu University, one of Japan’s most prestigious national women’s universities, to highlight the importance of women’s education and encourage the female leaders of tomorrow.
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Secretary of Defense Ash Carter visited Tokyo on Dec. 7-8 and met with Japanese counterparts, including Defense Minister Tomomi Inada.
Read More» Nov. 8 – In congratulating Japan on its ratification of the Paris Agreement, Ambassador Caroline Kennedy said, “The Diet’s action today helps send a powerful signal to the world: political momentum behind the Paris Agreement remains overwhelming.”
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Ambassador Caroline Kennedy went for a run in Fukuoka’s Ohori Park with Rio Paralympics silver medalist Misato Michishita and the Ohori Blind Runners’ Club. Ambassador Kennedy said she was inspired by the experience and excited about creating opportunities for all in both the U.S. and Japan.
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Oct. 31 – Ambassador Caroline Kennedy watches Fukuoka Mayor Soichiro Takashima fuel a car at a hydrogen fueling station in Fukuoka. They discussed the environmentally friendly technology used by the fueling station to turn waste into fuel.
Read More» On behalf of the American people, I offer my deepest condolences to the Imperial Family and to the Japanese people on the loss of His Imperial Highness Prince Takahito of Mikasa.
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Nearly 100 students gathered at the Embassy on Oct. 20 to watch the third and final presidential debate between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton. The students tested their knowledge with a pre-debate quiz, participated in polling, and listened to post-debate analysis from expert panelists.
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Ambassador Caroline Kennedy visited the Thai Embassy in Tokyo to offer condolences on the death of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
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Ambassador Caroline Kennedy traveled to Nagasaki where she attended the Kunchi Festival. She also visited with students at Nagasaki Higashi High School, attended a ship-naming ceremony at Oshima Shipyard, and met with U.S. sailors at Sasebo.
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Ambassador Kennedy delivered the keynote speech at@AsahiWorldForum on Oct. 3
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Ambassador Caroline Kennedy rode in the Tour de Tohoku bike rally on Sept. 18 in support of the region’s recovery from the 3.11 disasters. This time, the Ambassador pedaled the 95 km stretch from Kesennuma to Ishinomaki, along with over 3,000 other participants.
Read More» We honor the lives of those lost on September 11, 2001 and mourn today with our Japanese friends and colleagues. We draw inspiration from the myriad ways in which survivors and victims’ families continue to honor their legacy. Our thoughts are with them.
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U.S. Ambassador to Japan Caroline Kennedy launched a new video collaboration with Japanese alumni of U.S. colleges and universities. The “A Broader View” website showcases inspirational stories of Japanese role models who studied and lived in the United States. Participants include Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, jazz artist Makoto Ozone, television personality Mari Sekine, Huffington Post …
Read More» On behalf of the American people, I offer my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed and injured. I am deeply shocked and saddened to hear the tragic news of the attack at Tsukui-Yamayuri-En in Sagamihara. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and with the people …
Read More» On behalf of the American people, I offer my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed or injured in the attack this morning in Sagamihara. I was particularly shocked and saddened that such an attack was carried out at a home for the intellectually disabled and against residents who depended on …
Read More» Ambassador Caroline Kennedy spoke to the press together with Japan’s Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida, Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, and USFJ Commander John Dolan. They announced a joint statement on the Japan-U.S. Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA). Ambassador Caroline Kennedy: Minister Kishida, Minister Nakatani, General Dolan: On behalf of the American people, I want to extend …
Read More» (This article was published in The Japan Times on July 4, 2016.) President Barack Obama reminded us in his speech in Hiroshima in May that the story of America began with this simple idea: “All men are created equal, and endowed by our Creator with certain unalienable rights, including life, liberty and the pursuit of …
Read More» Third Plenary of the International Partnership for Nuclear Disarmament Verification in Tokyo AMBASSADOR KENNEDY: Good morning. Minister Kikawada, distinguished guests, I want to thank the government of Japan for hosting this third plenary of the International Partnership for Nuclear Disarmament Verification, and for its important and practical leadership in pursuit of a world without nuclear …
Read More» Thank you for giving me the opportunity to come here tonight to express my deepest sorrow on behalf of the American government and the American people. This is a terrible tragedy. Our hearts go out to the victim, her family, and her friends. Nothing that I can do or say can make up for their …
Read More» The President’s decision to visit Hiroshima with Prime Minister Abe is a tribute to the spirit of friendship and the enduring alliance between the United States and Japan. His visit will reaffirm our shared commitment to working towards a world without nuclear weapons. I am honored to be the U.S. Ambassador at this time, and …
Read More» Good Afternoon and Happy Mother’s Day! Congratulations to Tokyo Pride Parade on celebrating your fifth anniversary. I am proud to be the first U.S. Ambassador to speak here and join you in making Golden Week Rainbow Week! In America, we strive to live up to the promises of freedom and equality on which our country …
Read More» Ambassador Caroline Kennedy traveled to Kumamoto City to encourage local officials and local residents in their recovery efforts following the Kumamoto earthquake. She traveled to Camp Kengun with Lt Gen Dolan, Commander, USFJ and Lt Gen Nicholson, Commanding General, III MEF where they met with the Western Army and received a briefing on lessons learned …
Read More» As the Kumamoto earthquake relief efforts move into their fifth day, all Americans are praying for the safety and well-being of the victims and all those in the affected areas. We are inspired by the resilience of the people of Kyushu, the dedication of government officials, first responders and members of the JSDF, and the …
Read More» Good Morning. I am so glad to be here on this beautiful Spring Day to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden. I want to thank President Medbury, Vice Chair Diane Steinberg, Ambassador Takahashi and my friend Liz Moynihan – an authority on gardens, ambassadors, and New York – for making this day …
Read More» Ambassador Caroline Kennedy spoke with Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida at the Foreign Ministry on Jan. 6, 2016, after North Korea’s announcement that they had carried out an underground nuclear test. AMBASSADOR KENNEDY: Mr. Minister, I am happy to be here this afternoon to express condemnation of the recent announcement. We condemn any violation of the …
Read More» QUESTION: Our time is limited, so let’s start with a hard question. I would like to ask you about politics and security. This year happens to be the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II, and you participated in memorial services in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, so I would love to hear your comments …
Read More» “The United States and Japan: Building the Alliance of the Future” Good Afternoon. Thank you for inviting me to this gathering. I would like to thank Managing Director Nakai for welcoming me here today and Chairman Nishimura of the planning committee for serving as the moderator. And thank you all for coming. All my senior …
Read More» Good Afternoon. I am honored to join the Chief Cabinet Secretary today to announce an important agreement between the Governments of Japan and the United States regarding the early return of land in Okinawa. Mr. Chief Cabinet Secretary, I want to salute you and the Prime Minister for your leadership, and your deep commitment to …
Read More» Serving as Ambassador to Japan during the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II has shown me the power of reconciliation to change the world. The chance to welcome Cuban Ambassador Rodriguez Costa to the U.S. Embassy as a full diplomatic partner was a special honor. Fifty-two years after the Cuban Missile Crisis, …
Read More» Good Morning. Thank you Elizabeth. Congratulations Jay on some really powerful remarks, and thank all of you for inviting me back to this important gathering. I’d like to commend the members of the ACCJ Women in Business committee, Elizabeth and Deborah Hayden for all your contributions to making this conference such a success. The partnership …
Read More» Good Afternoon. I love the flags. “Hey Japan!” It is a great honor to be here today. I want to thank Dean Janow for inviting me. I want to thank the Board of Trustees, distinguished faculty and administrators. Most of all, thank you to the students and families here today. You really are the world. …
Read More» Good Morning. It is an honor to be here with three women I greatly admire to talk about one of the most important issues in the world today – the education of girls and young women. I am deeply saddened by to learn of the loss of Japanese citizens in Tunisia and our hearts go …
Read More» Good Morning. I am honored to be here today to address the US-Japan Business Conference on the occasion of your 51st annual meeting. I would like to thank Chairman Ishihara and Chairman Lechleiter for your leadership over the past year leading to this meeting. It is a pleasure to be here with Chief Cabinet Secretary …
Read More» On Monday, September 29, U.S. Ambassador to Japan Caroline Kennedy stated: “The U.S. Embassy community joins me in sending our thoughts and prayers to the families and friends of those affected by the Mount Ontake Volcanic Eruption. We express our condolences to those who have lost loved ones.”
Read More» Ambassador Caroline Kennedy completed 60 km of the annual Tour de Tohoku bicycle rally on Sept. 14 to support the Tohoku region’s ongoing recovery from the 2011 earthquake disaster. At the starting line at Ishinomaki Senshu University, Ambassador Kennedy said: It’s great to be here and participate in this Tour de Tohoku event. This is …
Read More» AMBASSADOR KENNEDY: Thank you for having me here today. Hello everyone. It’s a great pleasure to join you at this special demonstration flight to commemorate the delivery of the new stretch version of the Boeing 787 to ANA. I’d like to thank Chairman Ohashi and Chairman Ito and Boeing Japan President Maffeo for making this …
Read More» Ambassador Kennedy: Welcome and congratulations for having applied for your student visas. Here at the American Embassy we have worked very hard to make the visa process fast and easy to understand, so I hope that we have succeeded. While the process may seem simple, this is actually a day that is going to change …
Read More» AMBASSADOR KENNEDY: Lieutenant General Wissler, Chaplain Creditor, Robin Miller and the USO, Justin Wentworth, honored veterans, distinguished guests – thank you. On behalf of President Obama, my State Department colleagues, and all Americans, I am honored to say a few words at this solemn occasion. Today, we remember the sacrifices of those brave Americans who …
Read More» Good morning and thank you for inviting me to be here. I would like to commend ACCJ for bringing us together to talk about some of the important issues facing women. Thanks to Irene Hirano for her leadership of the U.S. –Japan Council and for helping young people in Japan and the United States become …
Read More» AMBASSADOR KENNEDY: Good afternoon and thank you for welcoming me to Ise Shrine, Japan’s most sacred place. I would especially like to thank Governor Suzuki, Mayor Suzuki, and Chairman Doi of Gakudokofu, which does so much to support the memory of former Tokyo Mayor Yukio Ozaki. I’m so grateful that all of you are able …
Read More» In his autobiography, Nelson Mandela wrote, “I will continue fighting for freedom until the end of my days.” Those days sadly have come to an end, but Mandela’s legacy continues to inspire us to guard the torch of freedom for generations to come. From his cramped cell on Robben Island, Mandela emerged as an icon …
Read More» Ambassador Caroline Kennedy, making her first trip as Ambassador, visited the Tohoku region Nov. 25-26.
Read More» AMBASSADOR KENNEDY: Thank you. Thank you so much. Thank you all for coming – I know everybody here is very busy, so I’m very honored that you all chose to come today. And thank you, Ambassador Fujisaki, for the beautiful flowers you sent me on my arrival and for all you’ve done over the years …
Read More» Hi, I’m Caroline Kennedy. Welcome to my home in New York City. I’m deeply honored that President Obama has asked me to serve as the United States Ambassador to Japan. Growing up in a family dedicated to public service, I saw how people can come together to solve challenges through commitment, communication and cooperation. That’s …
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