On 30 October, Consul-General MINOYA hosted a reception at his official residence. The reception was attended by members of the JET Alumni Association (JETAA) from New Zealand, Australia and Singapore, all former participants of the JET Programme, which marks its 40th year this year. Mayor of Utsunomiya SATO Eiichi and Vice Chairperson of the Utsunomiya City Council NAITO Yoshihiro joined as special guests. Auckland Councillor John Watson, representatives of CLAIR (Council of Local Authorities for International Relations) and representatives of the Japanese community also attended. A promotional booth showcased the attractions of Utsunomiya, and Official Chef KITAZONO served Utsunomiya gyoza and Utsunomiya yakisoba, both of which were very popular with guests. The Consulate-General will continue to support JETAA members in their future endeavours and to promote exchanges between Utsunomiya and Auckland.
