Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey recently played host to a delegation from Hokkaido, Japan, marking the 35th anniversary of the Hokkaido-Massachusetts Sister State Agreement. This event commemorated the long-standing bonds between the two states, with a joint declaration signed to continue their collaborative efforts in areas like education and industry development. The significance of the day was further highlighted when Governor Healey announced October 22 as "Hokkaido Day" across Massachusetts.
During the event, the visiting delegation, led by Hokkaido Vice Governor Shinichi HAMASAKA, was reminded of the historical ties that date back over 150 years. According to a statement from the Massachusetts Office of International Trade and Investment, figures from Massachusetts, such as Dr. William Smith Clark, were instrumental in Hokkaido's development. The sister state relationship was originally formed in 1990 by then-Governor Michael Dukakis and Governor Takahiro Yokomichi to strengthen these connections.
"For over a century, Massachusetts and Hokkaido have enjoyed a close relationship and an ongoing exchange of students, scholars and ideas," Governor Healey emphasized. She hopes to expand the cultural exchange and solidify economic partnerships. Vice Governor HAMASAKA responded with a nod to historical inspiration, saying, "‘Boys, Be Ambitious’ − with the words of Dr. Clark in mind, we would like to further deepen the ties that have been nurtured between our two regions and pass them on to the future," as mentioned on mass.gov.
The Massachusetts Hokkaido Association and the Massachusetts Office of International Trade and Investment were responsible for organizing the delegation's visit. The connection between Massachusetts and Hokkaido is just one among many international partnerships Massachusetts fosters. As reported by the Massachusetts government's news portal, the state has similar agreements with countries from around the globe, encompassing diverse regions such as Argentina, Brazil, and Taiwan.
