Switzerland hosted the Science & Technology Diplomatic Circle’s annual Year End Party 2019. Around 50 people consisting of members of diplomatic missions in Tokyo and their Japanese partners from governmental bodies, research institutes and universities representing the science community in Tokyo participated in the event.
On the occasion, Mr. Fumikazu Sato, Councillor for Innovation Promotion and Deputy Director General for Science, Technology and Innovation at the Japanese Cabinet Office gave a short introduction to Japan’s upcoming 6th S&T Basic Plan and Moonshot R&D Program which aims to stimulate disruptive innovation. In his speech, Mr. Sato stressed the importance of institutions such as the S&T Diplomatic Circle to support international collaboration.
Mr. Sato’s presentation followed the welcome speech by Swiss Ambassador Mr. Jean-François Paroz and greetings by S&TDC co-chairs Dr. Svein Grandum of the Norwegian Embassy and Ms. Melinda Pavek of the U.S. Embassy.
Guests engaged in enthusiastic discussions after Prof. Masuo Aizawa, President of Japan International Science and Technology Exchange Center (JISTEC) gave the toast.
The S&TDC is a network of diplomats and members of government affiliated institutions from approximately 80 different countries and regions who are stationed mostly in Tokyo. The objective of the S&TDC is to offer a platform for activities, seminars and visits interacting with leaders and officials of the government, academia and private sector of Japan.