- Commissioner Leonard recognized the ongoing efforts of those in our community who keep our connection strong: The Portland Sapporo Sister City Association, the Japan America Society of Oregon, and the Oregon Nikkei Endowment.
This is the third year we have observed this custom. We began this custom of raising our flags in friendship two years ago, but this was Commissioner Leonard's first year to have the honor of being the presiding official. Portland is one of few cities in the U.S. that does this, marking the very special relationship between Portland and Japan.
We have many reasons to be optimistic about renewed business cooperation with Japan. With close to 100 companies represented in Portland, Japan is critical to the Portland economy. We are pushing forward for new opportunities in clean technology and renewable energy. We have so much in common in our quest for a cleaner and smarter planet. It only makes sense that our people and businesses work together.
Consul General Okabe said a few words about the international friendship as well, focusing on the tsunami in March of this year and the shared efforts to provide relief to Japan in the wake of this disaster.
Posted by Anna DiBenedetto
