Consulate-General of Japan in Houston

Thank you for the kind introduction.  Good morning, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen.  My name is Nozomu Takaoka, Consul-General of Japan in Houston. It gives me great pleasure to attend this ceremony.  I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the honorable presence of the United States' Senators from Louisiana; Senator Mary Landrieu and Senator David Vitter. I'd also like to appreciate the Louisiana as Congressman Charles Boustany, as well as Speaker of the House Congressman Chuck Kleckley for their attendance today. I also wish to thank two Louisiana State Senators; Senator Ronnie Johns and Senator Blade Morrish, and Cameron Parish Police Jury President Mr. Kirk Quinn.

This project is significant moment not just for the Japan-U.S relationship, but also for the entire global energy system.  Japan is currently the number one importer of LNG, consuming 37% of the total world LNG.  The United States is also the number one provider of natural gas.  Therefore, through effective Japan-U.S cooperation like this project, together our two countries can promote the economic viability and democratic nature of the current global energy market. 

Today, the market is heavily influenced by countries where free market practices do not always apply.  Therefore, it is imperative this project and further collaboration between Japan and the United States strengthens and promotes a democratic alliance in the world energy market and contributes to global peace and energy developments.  For this reason, I and everyone who has kindly gathered here today should be incredibly proud to be here at the groundbreaking event for what will soon be the biggest project of energy exchange between our two countries.

As Consul-General of Japan in Houston, I represent Japan in the state of Texas and the energy capital of the world; Houston, a three hour drive from here.  I am also happy to convey the well wishes from my colleague, Mr. Motohiko Kato, the Consul-General of Japan in Nashville, who represents Japan in the great state of Louisiana and sent his deputy, Mr. Iryu, today.  Mr. Kato expressed to me his great pride at the launch of this project. He strongly believes these deep bonds between Japan and Louisiana will continue to grow thanks to the presence of this project, and I join him in thanking once again all the great efforts by all those who are here today.

I am sure everyone here will share my sincere hopes for the continued success of this project, and my warm congratulations at this auspicious event.  Thank you for inviting me to the Cameron Liquefaction Project’s groundbreaking ceremony and thank you for your attention.