Greetings from Consul-General Okajima

Greetings,

I would like to extend my heartfelt greetings to the people of Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, and Wyoming. I feel very fortunate to live in the Rocky Mountain region of the United States, rich in natural beauty throughout all four seasons.

Since the late 19th century, the four states have been attractive destinations for Japanese immigrants seeking wealthier lives, and American people had accepted and integrated them into their society as partners. After the trying times of World War II, when individuals such as former Governor Ralph Carr showed their bravery and faith, the region’s ties with Japan have been continuously developing.

Furthermore, Japan and the United States have become indispensable partners in the last 80 years, sharing basic principles such as democracy, human rights and the rule of law. I believe the foundation of this strong relationship between our two countries lies in the deep, long-standing ties in various areas of culture, society, and the economy by municipal, private, and grassroots players on both sides.

My first contact with the Mountain states was at the end of 1988, onboard a transcontinental train which left Las Vegas, bound for Chicago by way of Salt Lake City, Grand Junction, Denver and Omaha. I clearly remember the view from the coach as we descended to the Great Plains, a vista including the white Rocky Mountains and the skyscrapers of Denver lit by the setting sun.

Now, after a 36-year absence, I am privileged to revisit and stay in this beautiful land to serve as a member of the Japanese consular mission to the Rocky Mountain region. It is my great honor to be engaged in the cultural, social and economic relations between my country and these four States, which are already strong but still have opportunities for further development.

I look forward to learning about the heritage and achievements of Japanese descendants here, as well as the opportunity to work together with everyone interested in further developing the friendship between our two countries.

OKAJIMA Hiroyuki

Consul-General of Japan in Denver

December 18, 2024