Join the Alaska World Affairs Council and Commonwealth North for a special evening with former Foreign Minister of Japan, Yoko Kamikawa and Atsushi Sunami, Ph.D. The program will feature a discussion moderated by Mead Treadwell, focusing on Japan’s evolving role in the Arctic and the broader implications for international cooperation, regional security, and the future of this rapidly changing region.
Drawing on her experience in diplomacy and governance, Kamikawa will offer insights into Japan’s strategic priorities in the Arctic and how they intersect with the interests of Arctic stakeholders, including Alaska. Professor Sunami brings an extensive career in science, technology, and political science to bear on the discussion.
Following the program, stay for appetizers, drinks and conversation—an opportunity to connect directly with our visitors and community.
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About the Speakers
Yoko Kamikawa is a Japanese politician known for her long-standing role in national government. She is the first woman to have served Japan both as Minister of Justice and Minister for Foreign Affairs. Kamikawa was first elected to the House of Representatives of Japan in 2000. Her first cabinet position was in 2007 as Minister of State for Gender Equality and Social Affairs.
She graduated from the University of Tokyo and in 1988 she received a master’s degree in public policy from Harvard University. During her time in the United States, she worked as a Fulbright fellow under Senator Max Baucus.
During her time as Foreign Minister, she took an active role in promoting Japan’s position as a proactive contributor to peace, including trips to the Middle East, Ukraine, and a tour of Europe and North America. In January 2024, Kamikawa also oversaw the launch of a new “Women, Peace and Security (WPS)” task force to address gender-inclusive security issues.
Mr. Sunami serves as President of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, a Distinguished Fellow at The Asia Pacific Foundation in Canada, and a Special Advisor to the President and guest professor at the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies.
He graduated from Georgetown University and received his PhD from Columbia. Mr. Sunami has chaired various Ministerial committees for advanced science and space exploration. His involvement spans from space to the oceans as Chairperson of the Consortium for Satellite Earth Observation at the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency to co-Chair of the NIKKEI Blue Ocean Forum Advisory Committee.
Event Details
- Check-in will begin at 4:30 PM with seating available on a first-come first-serve basis. The program will begin at 5:00 PM.
- Those with online reservations do not need to present ticket confirmation at the door, we will have all confirmed attendees on a list at check-in.
- Online registration closes at 12:00 PM on April 30, or earlier if the event reaches capacity. Space is limited, and advance registration is strongly encouraged.