From Monday 14 October to Friday 18 October 18 2024, the ‘Air Force Forum in Japan’ was held in Tokyo as part of the celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). Congrès Inc. was responsible for the planning and management of this historic event.
The forum brought together approximately 300 participants, including air force chiefs, senior officials and delegates from twenty countries and organisations in the Indo-Pacific region, Europe and North America. Key activities included the multilateral conference InPACT (Indo-Pacific Air Chiefs Conference in Tokyo), bilateral meetings, field studies and a special spouse programme.
Day 1: Welcome Reception
On 14 October a welcome reception was held to greet the attendees, including the Minister of Defense Nakatani Gen and distinguished domestic and international guests. A highlight of the evening was a performance by renowned Gagaku artist Togi Hideki and his ensemble of four musicians, who played a mix of classical and modern compositions, providing a unique display of Japanese hospitality.
Blending tradition with innovation, TOGI has reimagined Gagaku – Japan’s ancient court music, which dates back over 1,000 years – by incorporating piano and synthesisers alongside its traditional wind, string and percussion instruments. Continuing a family legacy of Gagaku, he has introduced this rich cultural heritage to audiences both in Japan and abroad, earning widespread acclaim and numerous awards, including a Japan Record Award for his album TOGISM2.
The event also featured a dynamic performance by the JASDF Central Band, followed by a stunning collaboration between the band and Togi’s group, leaving the audience captivated.
Day 2: Multilateral Conference
On 15 October the multilateral conference InPACT convened with keynote addresses by Professor Peter W. Singer (Managing Partner, Useful Fiction) and Professor Jimbo Ken (Faculty of Policy Management, Keio University; Executive Director, International House of Japan). Through three panel discussions, participants, including air chiefs and senior staff, engaged in lively debates on defense cooperation strategies vital to the current global landscape.
Days 3 and 4: Bilateral Meetings
The 16 and 17 October were dedicated to bilateral meetings, including those between JASDF Chief of Staff General Uchikura Hiroaki and leaders from invited nations. Numerous bilateral dialogues among participating countries were also held, fostering valuable exchanges of ideas, and strengthening collaborative ties.
We are deeply honuored to have managed such a historic event for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force and extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in making this occasion a success.
Nishimura Ikuko, Congrès Inc.