Message from New Consul General HIROTA Tsukasa

     My name is Tsukasa Hirota, and I have recently assumed my duties as the Consul General of Japan in Seattle.

     I joined Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs shortly after the end of the Cold War. It was a period of profound transformation in the international order, marked by events such as the fall of the Berlin Wall and the outbreak of the Gulf War. Witnessing these historic changes inspired me to pursue a career in diplomacy and to contribute to Japan's engagement in a rapidly evolving international environment. Since then, the international landscape has continued to undergo significant changes. Yet throughout these developments, the importance of the Japan–U.S. relationship, founded on shared fundamental values and strategic interests, has remained constant. During my diplomatic career, I have had the privilege of traveling to and serving in many countries. This is my first assignment in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, and I am truly excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.

     There is a long and distinguished history of exchange and cooperation between Japan and the region served by this Consulate. The trust and friendship cultivated over many years across a wide range of fields, including business, culture, and education, form an invaluable foundation for today's Japan–U.S. relationship.

     The Pacific Northwest also continues to grow as a global center of innovation. Against this backdrop, the opportunities for further collaboration between Japan and this region are expanding more than ever before.

     As Consul General, I am committed to building upon the strong relationships that have been established over the years while fostering new forms of cooperation suited to the challenges and opportunities of our time. I will also dedicate myself to supporting the safety and well-being of Japanese nationals residing in our jurisdiction and to assisting the activities of Japanese companies operating in the region.

     I look forward to meeting many of you and to working together to further strengthen the bonds between Japan and the Pacific Northwest.

     Thank you for your kind support and cooperation.
 
Tsukasa Hirota
     Born in 1970 in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, Consul General Tsukasa Hirota joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan in 1992 and has worked extensively in the fields of defense, United Nations affairs, disarmament and non-proliferation, and international cooperation.
     Prior to his appointment as Consul General of Japan in Seattle, he served at Japanese diplomatic missions in Canada, Indonesia, Australia, Hong Kong, Italy, and Mexico.
     He received his graduate degree in East Asian Studies from Yale University and is a Japan Sommelier Association–certified Wine Expert and a certified Vocational Psychological Counsellor. He is married with one daughter.