Secretary Clinton poses for a photograph with family members at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo, April 17, 2011.
April 19 - We were delighted to welcome Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to Japan this week. She met with the Emperor and Empress, the Prime Minister and the Minister of Foreign Affairs to express her sorrow at Japan's tremendous loss due to the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear accident.
She also brought a message of solidarity and hope. Accompanying her were Deputy Secretary of State Tom Nides and American Chamber of Commerce President Tom Donahue. She has asked them to form a public-private partnership to assist the Japanese government and business communities in Japan's reconstruction effort.
Secretary Clinton is received by the Emperor and Empress at the Imperial Palace on April 17.
Secretary Clinton's visit reinforced our message that Americans continue to stand ready to help Japan as it begins the process of economic reconstruction. She also noted how impressed we are with the stoicism and resolve of the Japanese people to rebuild.
Secretary Clinton shakes hands with Prime Minister Naoto Kan at the Kantei on April 17.
Secretary Clinton and Foreign Minister Takeaki Matsumoto at the Iikura Guest House in Tokyo, April 17
Just before Secretary Clinton departed, she met with American Embassy staff and their families. She told us how proud she is that American and Japanese employees at the Embassy are working together to help our friends in Japan. Below are some more photos from her visit.
U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas Donohue, Secretary of State Clinton, Foreign Minister Matsumoto, and Keidanren Chairman Hiromasa Yonekura at the Iikura Guest House, April 17. Secretary Clinton and Foreign Minister Matsumoto announced a public-private partnership between the U.S. and Japan in which businesspeople and public officials will work together to assist Japan in its recovery and reconstruction from the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.
Secretary Clinton is introduced by U.S. Ambassador John Roos at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo, April 17, 2011.
Secretary Clinton and her delegation meet with Foreign Minister Matsumoto and other Japanese officials at the Iikura Guest House, April 17, 2011. U.S. Ambassador John V. Roos is seated to the left of the Secretary.
Until next time,
Jim
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