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National Museum of Women in the Arts

Wednesday, June 6, 2018

Remarks Prepared for Delivery by
The Honorable Elaine L. Chao
Secretary, U.S. Department of Transportation
National Museum of Women in the Arts
Washington, D.C.
Tuesday, June 5, 2018

 

Thank you, Roy [Pfautch].

I am so pleased to join tonight’s distinguished guests in welcoming Japan’s new envoy to the United States, Ambassador Sugiyama, and his wife, Yoko.   

This evening celebrates the strong ties between Japan and the United States. .  

The meeting between President Trump and Prime Minister Abe last February 10, 2017 led to the new U.S.-Japan Economic Dialogue, launched by Vice President Mike Pence and Deputy Prime Minister Taro Aso which is strengthening economic cooperation between our two countries.  In support of this initiative, I signed a Memorandum of Cooperation on October 16, 2017 between the U.S. Department of Transportation and Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.  It will enhance cooperation between our two countries in the transportation sector, and open a path to deeper engagement in areas of mutual interest.  The Department was also pleased to participate in the Japan Infrastructure Investment Forum in Washington, D.C. on January 16, 2018.  There are many other initiatives taking place under the sponsorship of other cabinet departments, all across this Administration.

They underscore the enduring ties between our two countries which was also emphasized last November when the President and First Lady made Japan, the first stop of their Asia tour.    And when Prime Minister Abe invited First Daughter Ivanka Trump to address the issue of women’s entrepreneurship at the World Assembly for Women in Tokyo. 

So there are many initiatives to build upon, and much goodwill awaits you here in Washington.

I hope this will be the beginning of many new friendships, as well as the start of an even more fruitful engagement between our two countries.  Once again, welcome, Ambassador and Mrs. Sugiyama.

 

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