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31st JOINT MEETING CO-CHAIRS' MESSAGE
 Dear
Florida Business Leader:
I am pleased to announce that Japan will officially host the 31st Annual
Joint Meeting of the Southeast U.S./Japan and Japan-U.S. Southeast
Associations this year. This prestigious event will be held in Tokyo
at the Imperial Hotel October 14-16, 2007, and I am honored to serve
as conference co-chair, along with Japanese Chairman Hiro Yonekura,
President Sumitomo Chemical Co. Ltd.
The relationship between Japan and the Southeast United States has
grown steadily since the first meeting took place between the business
and government leaders of Japan and our region three decades ago.
Since that time, more than 1,000 Japanese firms have invested in the
Southeast and Florida now claims Japan as its second largest trading
partner with bilateral trade valued at $5.3 billion and as fifth
largest investor in the state with some 175+ Japanese businesses here.
The relationship between Japan and the Southeast U.S. is stronger than
ever, truly building on these past three decades of successful
partnership.
This year's program will include remarks and presentations by top
business and government leaders, representing the most significant
aspects of the economic relationship as well as ties of
education, culture and friendship between Japan and the Southeast
United States. Additionally, the respective governors of each of the
member states, the U.S. Ambassador to Japan, and senior Japanese
business and government leaders and special guest speakers are
expected to participate. The meeting will provide exciting networking
opportunities for all of the 500-600 participating delegates to renew
old friendships and establish new ones, including a golf tournament,
sightseeing tours, receptions, meals and entertainment. Conference
participation is limited to only 70 Florida Delegates, providing an
exclusive opportunity to establish business relationships with leading
Japanese corporations.
The Southeast US/Japan Association and the Japan-US Southeast
Association have been hard at work preparing what will be a memorable
and productive event. The participation of leaders like you will
provide significant benefits for our state and entire region. I invite you to mark your
calendar now and strongly encourage your support and participation.
I look forward to seeing you in Tokyo this October!
Sincerely,
Thomas F. Petway, III
Co-Chairman
31th Annual Joint Meeting of
Southeast US/Japan & Japan-U.S. Southeast Associations |
