Conference Highlights Welcome Reception Conference networking began on the eve of Governance Day, with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands hosting the Welcoming Event on the embassy grounds under the imposing structure of Tokyo Tower. Innovation, Science & Technology Counsellor, Mr. Jan-Hein Crisstoffels and Deputy Head Councellor for Public Diplomacy, Political and Cultural Affairs, Mr. Ton van Zeeland received conference guests on behalf of the Dutch Embassy. Among other Japanese officials, Mr. Toshihiko Wako, Vice-Minister for Policy Coordination (MIC) represented Japan during this Welcoming Event. Japan Night Japan Night was a gathering that presented an intriguing display of tradition and culture as well as taste! The networking event was a memorable one for all attending while the opening statements by Director General for Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications/ Administrative Management Bureau, Mr. Tetsuo Yamashita made everyone feel welcome. Closing Evening Event The curtain came down to another successful ICA annual conference with a farewell dinner held on the evening of the 14th. It was an opportunity for everyone to meet and network during this formal and yet comfortable gathering. Certainly everyone left with plenty of anticipation for next year’s conference already in the makings! The evening was marked with many special moments including a speech by Mr. Hiroyuki Horie, Deputy Director General for the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications/ Administrative Management Bureau and an honoring to Frank Leyman who has completed his tenure as Programme Committee Chair. Imperial Palace A one of a kind opportunity awaited those who were in Tokyo the day following the conference. A private tour of the Imperial Palace gardens left ICA visitors with a memorable closing to the hospitality extended by the hosting country!
