Reception Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Consulate-General of Japan in Hagatna

Governor Lou Leon Guerrero and First Gentleman

Proclamation presented by the Governor and Lieutenant Governor

On October 22, Consul-General Susumu Ueda and Mrs. Ueda hosted a “Reception Celebrating 50th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Consulate-General of Japan in Hagatna” at Hotel Nikko Guam.

Resolution presented by Legislature of Guam

Certificate of special congressional recognition presented by Mr. Ralph Sgambelluri Senior Advisor to representative James Moylan

The reception began with the premiere of a commemorative video highlighting five decades of friendship between Japan and Guam. Consul-General Ueda expressed sincere appreciation to Japanese companies and individuals for their sustained contributions to Guam’s development and to strengthening vital ties. He further noted his hope to build upon this foundation and advance mutual growth and cooperation into the future.

Toast by Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo

Certificate of recognition presented by Guam Mayors’ Council

Governor of Guam Lou Leon Guerrero, Speaker Frank Blas, and Mr. Ralph Sgambelluri Senior Advisor to Representative James Moylan delivered congratulatory messages and presented commemorative certificates and a legislative resolution to Consul-General Ueda. Their remarks were followed by a traditional Kagami-Wari ceremony and a toast made by Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo, Director, Washington D.C. Liaison Office for the Governor of Guam.

Exhibition Booths by Japanese Companies

Displays showcasing the contributions of Japanese Companies

Guests viewed displays showcasing the contributions of Japanese companies to Guam’s economy and society, along with exhibition booths and a slideshow highlighting their lasting impact over the past half century.

Following the reception, Mr. Jesse Alig, President of the Mayors’ Council, visited the Consulate-General of Japan Office and presented a certificate of recognition to the Consul-General.

The Consulate-General of Japan in Hagatna remains committed to strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation with the Government and people of Guam and looks forward to building an even brighter future together over another 50 years.

Background

The Consulate-General of Japan in Hagatna officially opened on July 18, 1975, following rapid growth in Japanese tourism and investment during the early 1970s. Annual Japanese visitor arrivals reached approximately 163,000 in 1975, and the subsequent expansion of Japanese business activities called for the establishment of a diplomatic mission to support and protect the interests and welfare of Japanese nationals on Guam.

Today, Guam is home to more than 100 Japanese companies across a wide range of industries, including hospitality, travel, construction, telecommunications, and insurance, reflecting the strong economic partnership that has flourished over the past five decades.