Gov. Bruce Rauner took part in the annual Midwest-U.S. Japan Association Conference, which aims to bring together political and business leaders from Japan and the midwestern United States.
The conference was held in St. Louis and the focus was to develop the relationship between the region and Japan.
Partnership between Illinois, Japan stronger than ever
“There is no greater partnership, no stronger friendship and relationship between the people of Japan and the people of America,” Rauner said. “The success of Japanese businesses in the Midwest is critical to the success of Illinois, and we look forward to building upon that to improve our collective economies. Our relationship with Japan has spanned decades, and we will continue to foster that strong foundation.”
Illinois has a strong working relationship with Japan, as the country operates 350 companies at more than 1,200 locations throughout the state. Those economic ties have employed more than 49,000 people.
Chicago hosted the first Midwest-U.S. Japan Association Conference in 1967. The association collaborates with the 10 state governments that make up the Midwest to promote the region as a top business environment.
The conference wrapped up on Tuesday.
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