On February 1, Secretary-General Lim Byung-jin delivered a video congratulatory message at the Subnational Diplomacy Symposium hosted by Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, at the Tomogaze Promotion Hall in Naha City, Okinawa.
In his congratulatory message, Mr. Lim stated, “Amid escalating global tensions, this symposium, hosted by Okinawa Prefecture, is a highly timely event that contributes to easing tensions and building trust in the Asia-Pacific region. In particular, it is highly meaningful for a local government to play the leading part in exploring the role of subnational diplomacy.” He further emphasized that the NEAR Secretariat would continue to work closely with Okinawa Prefecture, a NEAR observer, to support the realization of regional diplomacy ideals and contribute to the prefecture’s development. He also expressed his hope that Okinawa Prefecture would soon become a regular member of NEAR.
The event began with an opening address by Okinawa Governor Denny Tamaki, followed by a congratulatory message from Secretary-General Lim Byung-jin. The program included a hearing survey with experts, a report on the achievements of the Asia-Pacific Regional Peace Cooperation Project, a lecture by the Ambassador of the Okinawa Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and experts’ panel discussion.
Okinawa Prefecture established the Subnational Diplomacy Office in 2023 to strengthen its efforts in subnational diplomacy. The symposium was organized with an aim to promote the role of subnational diplomacy in easing tensions and building trust in the Asia-Pacific region, both within and beyond Okinawa. Since joining NEAR as an observer in 2024, Okinawa Prefecture has been actively participating in various NEAR activities.