On 12th September, the Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce (IJCC) alongside the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) held their final joint networking event at the current Embassy of Ireland Residence.  

We were thrilled to welcome guests including Victor Osumi, ACCJ President, Aaron Snipe, Minister Counselor for Political Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo and members and friends from both Chambers.

IJCC Director Brietta O'Leary, Manager of the IJCC DEI Committee, was our MC and guided us through the proceedings for the evening. The event began at 19:00, with guests putting "meshi" (business cards) into the raffle box, ready for a night of networking and camaraderie. Ambassador Cole took the stage to share a few words, emphasizing the continued importance of strong ties between Ireland, the U.S., and Japan in both business and diplomacy.

As per tradition, both Chamber Presidents participated in a gift exchange. IJCC President Yoshihiro Tsuchiya presented President Osumi with a luxury travel candle from Rathbornes 1488, the oldest candle maker in the world.

One of the highlights of the night was the much-anticipated raffle. Excitement filled the room as attendees eagerly awaited their chance to win prizes. We would like to thank our generous sponsors: the Busker Irish Whiskey, Onoda Inc / Rathbornes 1488, Shelbourne Liquor / Two Stacks Irish Whiskey, Nikkei ScoutAsia, Brown Forman and The Executive Centre for the fantastic prizes and congratulations again to all our winners. 

Looking to the future, the IJCC and ACCJ reaffirmed their dedication to continuing this cherished partnership. With the opening of the new Ireland House set for 2025, there is much to look forward to as both Chambers prepare for the next chapter in their long-standing friendship.

Our sincere thanks to Ambassador Cole for welcoming us to his Residence each year and the entire Embassy of Ireland team for their warm Irish hospitality as always. We also would like to extend a special thanks to the ACCJ staff for their warm support of the event each year.

We are grateful to all who attended and supported this wonderful evening, and we eagerly anticipate our next event!