On June 29, Secretary-General LIM Byung-jin held meetings with 9 representatives of NEAR members from Mongolia, Japan, and Russia who attended the 2023 NEAR Working-level Workshop.

During his meetings with the representatives of five aimags, including JARGALSAIKHAN Daarii, the deputy governor of Bulgan Aimag, and NARANBAATAR Bat-Ireedui, the deputy governor of Govisumber Aimag, Mr. Lim expressed his appreciation for the active participation of Mongolian members in the NEAR activities. In addition, he requested Mongolian members continue to participate actively in the remaining NEAR events this year, including the General Assembly. The Mongolian delegation responded that they attach great importance to the NEAR activities and would actively participate in the upcoming NEAR events.

Moreover, during his meetings with the delegates from Shimane, Toyama, and Aomori prefectures in Japan, Mr. Lim expressed his regret for the relatively low participation of the Japanese NEAR members and hoped to deepen the breadth and depth of cooperation through closer communication between the Secretariat and the Japanese NEAR members.

TOSHIYUKI Sumi, NEAR honorary ambassador from Aomori Prefecture, notes that NEAR is conducting many good exchange projects but lacks publicity and emphasizes the importance of creating a network. 

Lastly, in his meeting with LAMAN Anna, director of the Department of Economic Development and Industry, Irkutsk Region, Mr. Lim assessed the current international political landscape and emphasized that friendship and cooperation between regions should continue to expand. 

Ms. LAMAN highlighted that Irkutsk has always been an active participant in the NEAR activities as the 11^th NEAR chair and suggested that various ways should be explored for practical international exchange among NEAR members in the future.