David Y. Ige

Remarks of Governor David Ige 

May 8, 2017 – Signing and Reception of the Hawaii-Hokkaido Sister-State Relationship at the Hawaii State Art Museum

 

Governor Takahashi, Assembly Chair Endo, Consul General Misawa and Mrs. Misawa, Governor Ariyoshi and Mrs. Ariyoshi, honored guests from Hokkaido and Hawaii, I extend a warm ALOHA!

It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to the beautiful and historic Hawaii State Art Museum on this very special occasion – the signing of our sister state relationship with Hokkaido.

I would especially like to thank the Hokkaido Club of Hawaii for their partnership in co-hosting this event and all their work in putting together additional activities.

Hokkaido and Hawaii are an ocean away yet there are so many things that bring us together.

We have a deep reverence for our indigenous culture. The ancient Ainu, like the Hawaiians have instilled in us a reverence for cultural mindfulness. We share the desire to ensure sustainable food sources.  Both of our states embrace agriculture and we use technology as a tool to share our food with the world. Finance and trade defines us as “global partners”. Our states are highly sought after as links to greater prosperity. Progressive educational opportunities.

We value and engage in student exchanges. The relationship between Kaiser High School and Hokkaido Intercultural and Technology School. Last year 300 students visited Hawaii and started what we hope will be a lasting bond. It was their brass band you heard earlier. As sister-states I hope that we can accomplish many significant milestones.

International relationships are now part of the new world order. The bridges we build through the experiences we share help to broaden our view and allow us to be generous and accepting of others.

I look forward to one day visiting Hokkaido and experiencing your beautiful national parks, amazing seafood, famous Hokkaido Rice, Genghis Kahn Meat from Sapporo.

Tonight, as we confirm this relationship, let’s enjoy our time together and look forward to a successful partnership.

We are both committed to ensuring that this legacy will grow and flourish through our next generation and the many generations to come.

Mahalo!