Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Arfiya Eri welcomed yesterday a delegation of U.S. students from Loyola Marymount University and Claremont Colleges participating in the Inouye Program, part of Japan’s Kakehashi Project. During the 35-minute meeting, Eri emphasized the importance of the Japan-U.S. alliance and encouraged the students to build lasting friendships and contribute to strengthening bilateral relations.
The students expressed gratitude for the opportunity to visit Japan and shared their experiences. They also engaged in a lively discussion with Eri, asking questions about political empowerment for women and minorities, as well as advice for young people aspiring to enter politics.
The Kakehashi Project aims to deepen understanding of Japan among young North American leaders, while the Inouye Program honors the legacy of the late Senator Daniel Inouye, a champion of U.S.-Japan relations.