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CNMI welcomes new Japanese consul
The CNMI recently welcomed a new Japanese consul to replace former consul Kinji Shinoda, who has retired.
Newly-appointed Japanese Consul to the CNMI Kazuhiko Ono made his public debut at the 13th Annual Nenpou Shinkyou Denomination Memorial Ceremony last week.
Ono, who arrived on Saipan last May 8, was amazed to learn about the deep ties that bind the Marianas and Japan. He said he plans to help strengthen that bond. He hopes that, in his time as consul, he can help entice more Japanese tourists to visit the Commonwealth as it is rich in Japanese history.
Ono said he has yet to make his rounds of introducing himself to the Commonwealth’s private and government sectors but he is looking forward to meeting them all.
Ono previously served as Japan’s consul in New Zealand before he was stationed in the Commonwealth to replace Shinoda, who retired in March.
Shinoda, who served as Japan consul to the CNMI for two years, promoted projects such as teaching opportunities in Japan, the introduction of unique sake to the CNMI, the establishment of the CNMI Japanese Descent Association.
