On May 28, 2026, the Office of the City of Yokohama Representative to the Americas participated in the “AAPI Reception – Sake Night” hosted by the Consulate General of Japan in New York. The reception was held in Albany, the capital of New York State, in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. The event was held primarily to recognize the contributions of the Asian American community and the individuals and organizations contributing to U.S.–Japan relations throughout New York State.

Among the distinguished attendees were Consul General Satoshi Katahira, Honorary Consul Larry David Evans, New York State Senator John Liu, New York State Senator Kristen Gonzalez, Assemblymember Ron Kim, and Assemblymember Grace Lee. The reception brought together a diverse group of participants, including representatives from various Japanese and American organizations, business leaders, community groups, and others who contribute to strengthening ties between Japan and the United States. Guests at the event were also able to enjoy Japanese cuisine and sake prepared for the reception’s networking session.

During the reception, the Yokohama Representative Office focused its efforts on promoting  GREEN×EXPO 2027, the International Horticultural Expo scheduled to be held in Yokohama in 2027. The office introduced the vision and significance of the Expo while also highlighting Yokohama’s tourism attractions, startup and innovation ecosystem, and its status as an international city. Many attendees expressed interest in both Yokohama and GREEN×EXPO 2027, contributing to the atmosphere and discussion and international exchange.

As Albany serves as the political and administrative center of New York State, as well as being home to both the state government and legislature, the opportunity to introduce GREEN×EXPO 2027 in this setting was particularly meaningful as part of Yokohama’s efforts to raise international awareness of the Expo.

The reception also highlighted the broad range of stakeholders supporting U.S.–Japan relations across New York State, including government officials, legislators, community leaders, and private-sector organizations. Through engagement with these networks, the Office of the City of Yokohama Representative to the Americas will continue to expand promotional activities for GREEN×EXPO 2027 throughout North America. The office remains committed to strengthening exchanges between Yokohama and communities across the region while fostering deeper international collaboration.