NSC in Japan: strengthening bilateral ties through leadership

NSC's flagship Senior Executive Service development program recently wrapped up a productive and insightful week in Tokyo, Japan. The program offered participants a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of leadership in challenging environments while strengthening Australia’s bilateral ties with Japan.

Participants had the privilege of visiting the National Diet, where they heard from influential leaders Mr Akisha Nagashima and Mr Keitaro Ohno, members of Japan’s House of Representatives. A key highlight was a presentation at the Japanese Ministry of Defence by General Yoshihide Yoshida, Chief of Joint Staff, Japan Self-Defense Force, which provided invaluable insights into Japan’s defence priorities. The group also explored strategic defence capabilities during a visit to the Yokosuka Naval Base and gained a first-hand perspective of the Seventh Fleet’s operations.

The delegation spent two immersive days at the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS), engaging with a diverse range of expert speakers. Beyond the institutional engagements, the program underscored the importance of Australia–Japan collaboration in addressing shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific. The Tokyo segment of the 2024 program highlights NSC’s continuing commitment to equipping leaders with the tools and insights needed to navigate an increasingly dynamic and disruptive geopolitical landscape.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Embassy of Japan in Australia and the Australian Embassy in Japan for their support and insightful engagement.