EVENTS

RECENT EVENTS:

leading experts from Japan, Canada, and the United States ENGAGED IN an in-depth discussion on the outcomes of the June 15 to 17, 2025, G7 Leaders’ Summit and their implications for North America-Japan relations, the Indo-Pacific region, and the broader global landscape.

The webinar discussed the implications of the recent G7 summit for Japan's relations with the US and Canada. Key points included the lack of a joint communique, the importance of economic security, and the need for Japan to act as a bridge between regional and global issues. The summit highlighted Japan's role in critical minerals and defense cooperation with Canada and how The US-Japan relationship faceS challenges due to economic pressures and the absence of high-level meetings. The discussion also emphasized the need for multi-track diplomacy and the role of private and civil society sectors in shaping global policies.

Speakers include the following:
Emma Chanlett-Avery
Deputy Director and Director for Political-Security Affairs
Asia Society Policy Institute's Washington, DC Office

Dr. Kristi Govella
Associate Professor
University of Oxford

Dr. Ken Jimbo
Managing Director
International House of Japan

Matthew Millar
Chairman and CEO
The MIllar Group

Jonathan Berkshire Miller
Co-Founder and Principal
Pendulum Geopolitical Advisory

Dr. Joshua Walker
President and CEO
Japan Society

Moderator: 
Dr. David Janes
Vice President, North America, International House of Japan
Executive Director, American Friends of the International House of Japan

Co-sponsored by: Japan Society, The University of Chicago International House, International House at UC Berkeley, and The University of Chicago Center for East Asian Studies.

Ambassador Mikio Mori Hosts Event in New York City, Marking New North American Initiatives

On October 22, Ambassador Mikio Mori of the Consulate General of Japan in New York hosted a significant event at his official residence. This occasion marked the commencement of a new chapter for the International House of Japan (IHJ), focusing on broadening its North American initiatives and expanding its presence in the region. This endeavor reflects a strategic step forward, reinforcing the institution's commitment to building a free, open, and sustainable future through intellectual dialogue, policy research, and cultural exchange with a diverse world. The event highlighted the integral role the American Friends of the International House of Japan (AFIHJ) plays in the United States as a key partner of the International House of Japan. 

Speakers highlighted the major geopolitical shifts taking place in the world today and ways in which the I-House, building on its 72 years of experience in cultural and intellectual exchange, is uniquely well positioned to respond and be highly relevant. Ambassador Mori indicated his deep interest in supporting the International House of Japan's role in enhancing the U.S.-Japan relationship. Dr. Kent Calder, Chair of the Board of AFIHJ, highlighted the crucial role the International House of Japan has played in U.S.-Japan relations and how the American Friends of the International House of Japan is working nationally to amplify and support its work, with a special focus on the next generation. Mr. James Kondo, Chair of the International House of Japan, noted the I-House's commitment to and investment in North America and provided details about the exciting new directions for IHJ while simultaneously preserving the traditional garden and mid-century modern building, and continuing to build the important legacy of the organization.  Mr. Justin Rockefeller, grandson of John D. Rockefeller III, spoke about his family's legacy of cultural exchange to build understanding and the importance of institutions such as the International House of Japan. 

The evening featured over 50 distinguished guests from throughout the United States who are passionate supporters of the International House of Japan and the important role IHJ plays in the world. IHJ and AFIHJ look forward to your support, engagement, and ideas as we develop initiatives in North America.