Learn about recent developments in U.S.-Japan relations — and how they affect North Texas. Experts from both countries will examine the state of the relationship as the new U.S. administration assumes power. The afternoon panel will look at the importance of mobility in the globalized world and the potential impact in Texas of the nation's first high-speed passenger train.

Grant Newsham, senior research fellow at the Japan Forum for Strategic Studies, will speak about the crucial U.S.-Japan security alliance and the challenges the new administration may face in the Asia-Pacific region. Newsham, a retired U.S. Marine colonel, was the first Marine liaison officer to the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. He lived in Tokyo for twenty years and has served on two occasions as the Marine attaché at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo.

Join us as we honor outstanding supporters of the U.S.-Japan relationship. Mr. Yoshihiko Miyauchi, Senior Chairman, ORIX Group, will receive the Sun & Star Legacy Award for his many significant contributions to strengthening U.S.-Japan relations for more than fifty years. Mr. Mark Berry, Chairman of the Dallas-Sendai Committee since 2005, will receive the Bridges-to-Friendship Award for his dedication to Dallas-Sendai friendship and exchange.