45th Anniversary of the Consulate General of Japan in Atlanta (February 18 & 26, 2019)

    In February 2019, the Consulate General of Japan celebrated the 45th anniversary of its establishment in Atlanta.

    On February 18th, Consul General Shinozuka held a celebratory luncheon and tree-planting ceremony at his official residence to commemorate the consulate’s anniversary. Many elected officials attended, including Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, representatives from both the City of Atlanta and Fulton County, and several Georgia General Assembly members. Also in attendance were executives from several major Japan-affiliated companies located in Georgia.

    On February 26th, the Georgia State Senate and House of Representatives each passed resolutions recognizing the 45th anniversary of the establishment of the Consulate General of Japan in Atlanta. Consul General Shinozuka was welcomed to the floor of both Chambers to receive the respective Resolutions. In addition, panels showcasing Japan’s economic and cultural relationship with Georgia, as well as “Paro” the therapeutic robot and information about the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, were placed on display in the Georgia State Capitol for visitors to enjoy. Later, Georgia General Assembly members and staff were invited to the Georgia Legislative Office Building to join in a luncheon which featured Japanese cuisine, “Washoku.” The Japanese Ambassador to the United States, Mr. Shinsuke Sugiyama, was in attendance and able to meet with several of the dozens of state legislators and staff enjoying the luncheon.

    Guests enjoyed discussing the rich history of Japan’s relationship with Georgia and the continued commitment the two have to maintaining strong economic and cultural bonds.