Greetings

I was appointed Chairperson of the Minato International Association (MIA) in June 2023, succeeding former Chairperson, Kumiko Torikai. Thank you for your continued support.

Since its founding in 1992, the Minato International Association has been striving to promote international exchange and multicultural coexistence in Minato City, based on volunteer activities by its members. As Chairperson of the Board, I am aware of the history of MIA and the breadth of its current activities, and am once again reminded of the power of the achievements nurtured by Kaoru Kanetaka, who served as chairperson for many years, as well as all the successive chairpersons, directors, members, and staff members. I would like to utilize this accumulated knowledge to creatively think about and implement activities that are necessary for the ideal image of Minato City today and in the future.

Conflicts and confrontations are currently intensifying in various areas of the world. Conflict, confrontation, discrimination, prejudice, and divisions caused by social disparities surround us. I am keenly aware of the difficulty that people and groups from different cultural backgrounds encounter when trying to understand and coexist with each other, and the necessity for starting from the ground up to achieve mutual coexistence.

The Minato International Association's mission is to contribute to the realization of a multicultural society by connecting the diverse people of Minato City and deepening mutual understanding and exchange. We will continue to value MIA's vision of inclusion, compassion, and tolerance, and carry out the activities necessary in a community where people with diverse roots, linguistic, and cultural backgrounds live, work, and learn together. We appreciate your continued understanding and cooperation.

Megumi Shibuya, Chairperson
Minato International Association