On December 14, JABA welcomed Japanese Consul General Jun Niimi to the United States at a welcome reception at the Los Angeles County Hall of Administration in downtown Los Angeles. He recently arrived in October to begin his position as the new Consul General in Los Angeles. The Consul General, a graduate of the University of Tokyo Faculty of Law, joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1979. Although he did not become a lawyer, Consul General Niimi stated that he continues to have a “deep respect for lawyers” and was happy for the opportunity to meet so many lawyers from JABA.
The Consul General emphasized his desire to strengthen ties between the United States and Japan, and mentioned the Japanese American Leadership Delegation (JALD) as an example of a successful program that builds constructive relationships between the two countries. Several JABA members have participated as Delegates in that program.
Eric Nishizawa and Ken Tanaka from the JABA Business Lawyers Group organized the festive reception. “We’re honored that Consul General Niimi took time from his very busy schedule to provide this opportunity to our members and guests,” said Nishizawa, “We look forward to working further with the Consul General to improve relations between the America and Japan.” Nishizawa stated that the Business Lawyers Group speakers programs are a great opportunity for members to meet important decision-makers and influence important decisions. Members were able to speak with the Consul General in a setting where there was plenty of time for extended conversations.
Consul General Niimi’s previous international assignments were to England, Kenya, France, Iran, Russia, and Thailand. At the MOFA headquarters in Tokyo, he served as Director of the Overseas Public Relations Division, Director of the Consular Policy Division, Director of the Overseas Establishments Division, and Assistant Vice-Minister. JABA welcomes the Consul General and looks forward to maintaining an amicable and collaborative relationship with the Consulate General of Japan.
