From October 26 to 28 Consul General Fukuda made an official visit to the Northwest Territories (NWT), making courtesy calls on The Honourable George Tuccaro, Commissioner of the Northwest Territories, The Honourable Premier Bob McLeod, and the Honourable Jackie Jacobson, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly. Consul General Fukuda was invited to and attended the opening ceremony for the 17th Legislative Assembly as a distinguished guest, and had a discussion with a group of Japanese nationals residing in Yellowknife.
In the string of discussions held, Consul General Fukuda expressed gratitude for the swift support in the form of both condolences and relief funds from the Government of the NWT in response to the Great East Japan Earthquake, as well as for Canada taking the lead in releasing control measures on Japanese imports. Also, he explained the current situation regarding steps taken toward restoration and reconstruction in the aftermath of the disaster, and in an effort to quash harmful rumours called on Canadians to visit Japan for the purpose of tourism, business and educational exchange.
From the dignitaries of the NWT condolences for the victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake were expressed, along with an explanation of the NWT's political policy and agenda, while ideas were exchanged regarding the Japan/Northwest Territories relationship.
The untapped potential of the development of the north geographic pole and resources of the NWT is tremendous, and even within Canada the NWT are one of the most focussed-on regions. Consul General Fukuda's official visit also served to reaffirm the significance of Japanese Tourists to the NWT, prompting him to renew his aspirations of yet further strengthening the relationship between Japan and the NWT with focus on the spheres of tourism and natural resources.