March 24, 2014

CASTRO ANNOUNCES INAUGURATION OF U.S-JAPAN CAUCUS

Washington, D.C– Congressman Joaquin Castro (D-TX) announces the creation of the bipartisan U.S- Japan Caucus. Rep. Castro is co-leading with Rep. Devin Nunes (R-CA) in the U.S. House of Representatives: 

“I’m thrilled to help establish this bipartisan caucus and further strengthen the relationship between the U.S. and Japan on a range of issues including international economics, national security, and international development. As a Representative of San Antonio, it is especially important to continue to maintain and develop Texas’ strong economic and cultural ties with Japan. Not only is Kumamoto San Antonio’s sister city, but also Japan is the 4th largest contributor of foreign direct investment in Texas with over 30 business projects in the state. I look forward to working with my Congressional colleagues on both sides of the aisle to facilitate bilateral collaboration on issues of common interest and strategic importance between the two countries.”

Background: 
In January 2014, Reps. Castro and Nunes began establishing the U.S.-Japan caucus by inviting Representatives from both parties to join. To date, the Caucus has 62 members. The official kick –off event is taking place in the evening on March 24 in Washington, D.C. The Caucus will provide a forum to educate Representatives on current events and strengthen ties between the two countries.  
 
According to the Texas Governor’s office, Texas is among the top ten destinations for Japanese Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)  projects. From 2008-20012, Japanese FDI projects in Texas are estimated to have generated almost $2.5 billion in investment and over 4,000 jobs.

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