 |
Letters and Messages |
Opening Speech by Consul-General Nozomu Takaoka
at KOKYO: A Dialogue Between Hearts, 2014
at Miller Outdoor Theater
on October 10, 2014
October 10, 2014
Howdy! Haisai!
As kindly introduced, my name is Nozomu Takaoka , Consul-General of Japan in Houston. I am very glad to be here after one year because my arrival from Japan and debut in Houston in October of last year coincided with the first performance of this great Okinawan culture, Kokyo 2013. And after that I met with many Houstonians talking to me, “I saw you at the Miller Theater!” I was so lucky to start my business in Houston with Okinawa.
I know there are great similarities between Okinawa and Houston. Both are in the center of the southern part of their countries, Japan and the U.S. Both are warm: Not just the climate, but also the people. Both are famous for great hospitality and international diversity. Houston and Okinawa are natural partners.
I am really glad that this great show of Okinawan culture in Houston, Kokyo 2014, continued this year and hopefully into next year. Thank you, Okinawa. Thank you, Houston.
Please enjoy.