Exchanges with Awaji City

On May 14, Ambassador Yamakura visited Awaji, where, as in Belize, much of the municipality is situated along the coastline and agriculture is a key industry in its inland areas. During a courtesy call on Mayor Toshikazu Toda, the Ambassador noted that he wished to explore opportunities for exchange between Belize and Awaji City, given their geographical and agricultural similarities, and that this visit represented a first step toward fostering such ties.

The Ambassador also visited Pasona Group, which has relocated part of its headquarters functions to Awaji Island and is actively engaged in regional revitalization efforts. Through site visits to facilities such as Nojima Schola, a multi-purpose complex created through the renovation of a former school building, the Ambassador exchanged views with stakeholders while considering possible approaches to revitalizing rural communities in Belize.

In addition, he visited facilities operated by Pasona Nouentai, including Hatake no Resort Sansan Villa, a project aimed at increasing the number of people engaged in agriculture by providing hands-on farming experiences.