USJF CEO Visits Minister Asao Keiichiro: Strengthening U.S.-Japan Collaboration on Climate and Beyond

On February 20, United States-Japan Foundation (USJF) President and CEO Jacob Schlesinger met with Japan’s Minister of the Environment and Minister of State for Nuclear Emergency Preparedness, Asao Keiichiro, at the Ministry of Environment in Kasumigaseki. Minister Asao is from the second cohort of the US-Japan Leadership Program (2001-2002) and has been a strong supporter of the USJF network. The lively and informal discussion covered a broad range of topics, including climate policy, disaster preparedness, and the evolving U.S.-Japan relationship amid shifting global dynamics.

The discussion initially focused on trade policy, environmental cooperation, and the future of U.S. engagement in global humanitarian aid and economic development amid shifting priorities under the new Trump administration. Asao emphasized Japan’s role in maintaining stability in Asia, particularly as U.S. policy adjustments affect USAID and international commitments. He shared insights from his recent visit to Washington, where he met with key administration figures, including USJLP Fellow Mike Waltz (2016–2017). 

The meeting underscored USJF’s role in addressing these complex challenges and the importance of maintaining open dialogue, including through the USJLP network and USJF platform. As Minister of the Environment, Asao is among many USJLP Fellows who have assumed elected and appointed leadership roles in Japan and the U.S..

A native of Tokyo, Asao graduated from the University of Tokyo’s Faculty of Law and later earned an MBA from Stanford University. He began his professional career at the Industrial Bank of Japan before transitioning to politics in 1998, when he was elected to the House of Councillors representing Kanagawa Prefecture. Over the years, he has served in various political roles, including as the Chairperson of the Committee on Financial Affairs of the House of Councillors in 2004. Since joining the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in 2017, he has continued to play an influential role in Japanese policymaking, such as the Chairperson of the Committee on Rules and Administration of the House of Councilors since January 2024.

In his new role as the head of this important Cabinet position, Asao has acknowledging both the challenges and economic opportunities presented by decarbonization  He noted “The most important thing [for Japan] is to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050,” explaining that “Although there are various opinions on the emission reduction targets, we need to balance decarbonization with economic growth while also considering the impact on future generations and society.” Speaking at the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, he described Japan’s net-zero emissions target as not only an environmental necessity but also a “great business opportunity.” He added that "It's time to move from a declaration to action.” 

The meeting between Minister Asao and USJF CEO Schlesinger highlighted the importance of U.S.-Japan collaboration in tackling pressing global challenges. The USJF network continues to foster bilateral dialogue and leadership development, with its alumni playing key roles in strengthening diplomatic, economic, and environmental ties. Minister Asao’s trajectory from USJLP Fellow to Cabinet Minister exemplifies the lasting impact of this network.

For more, see Minister Asao’s latest updates here:
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