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I hope that this final issue for 2021 finds you all well and ready to enjoy the holiday season.
A few years back, I was able to speak with Canadian Ambassador to Japan Ian McKay when he was CEO of Invest in Canada, and it was an honour to be able to visit him at the Embassy of Canada to Japan in Tokyo for another conversation. I found his comments on the state of Canada–Japan relations to be insightful, and was happy to hear how dedicated he is to working with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (CCCJ) and helping it continue to thrive.
One of the topics that our conversation touched on was the role that Canada can play in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region. In this issue, we have a piece written by CCCJ Governor Stephen Nagy that explores the area from an economic perspective.
Innovation in technology was the key topic in a recent webinar organized by The Japan Society and the law firm Borden Ladner Gervais LLP. Discussion delved into advances in hydrogen technology, how governments are beginning to support the inclusion of hydrogen in their plans to reach net zero emissions by 2050, as well as how Japanese and Canadian companies can work together for economic growth and to help protect the earth’s environment.
If you’re thinking about a new endeavour to try in the new year, check out the article by Harold Godsoe, chair of the CCCJ’s External Relations Committee. He tells us about some of his solo cycling adventures in Japan.
When Tom Ulecki, the founder of British Columbia-based Best Coast Bonsai, first visited Japan, he wasn’t expecting to discover a love for the time-honoured tradition of bonsai. However, his introduction to the art led him to later return to Japan for an apprenticeship and, eventually, to launch his own business, which brings out the natural beauty of local plants.
Finally, even with the changing Covid situation, safe in-person events are starting to become more frequent. We’re happy to be able to include recaps of two opportunities the CCCJ community had to meet up: a Thanksgiving picnic and fitness session and the Hibiya Cinema Festival.
Thanks as always for your continued readership, and we’ll see again you in the Year of the Tiger.
