On July 22nd, 2014, the Government of Japan appointed Mr. Mark Jackson, CEO and Chairman of Moreson Conferencing, to Honorary Consul of Japan in Birmingham, Alabama. Honorary Consuls are assigned to protect the interest of Japan and Japanese residents as well as to promote cultural exchange between Japan and regions where no Consulate General office is established. The assignments of Honorary Consul vary according to the needs of the regions, but usually include 1) supporting the protection of Japanese nationals/residents in the region; 2) supporting cultural events sponsored or organized by the Embassy or Consulate General for the people in the region. Honorary Consuls are usually citizens of the receiving country, and their status is not that of a government official. Therefore, their responsibilities are limited; they usually do not issue passport or visa, and are not authorized to notarize various documents including birth certificate, foreign resident certificate, etc.