Ambassador Iwama began his visit with a meeting with Governor Dr. Peter Kaiser to reinforce economic cooperation between Japan and Carinthia and to discuss paths to address common challenges. Both Japan and Austria face challenges related to climate change, renewable energy, and workforce shortages.

Following this, Ambassador Iwama visited Mazda Austria GmbH, based in Klagenfurt, to learn about the company's current initiatives, such as electrification and green transition. He then visited a training center for mechanics and a spare parts warehouse, observing how the company contributes to workforce development in Carinthia.


The tour concluded with a visit to the Bonsai Museum, a cultural museum showcasing Japanese-style gardens and bonsai trees, situated on Lake Millstätt in Seeboden, a city twinned with the Japanese city of Saijo, located in the Ehime prefecture. On this occasion, Ambassador Iwama spoke with museum director Günther Klösch, an awardee of the Order of the Rising Sun, accompanied by the mayor of the city, Mr. Thomas Schäfauer, about the benefits of the twin town relationship.

The visit of the Japanese Ambassador to the Austrian state of Carinthia is strategic in deepening cooperation throughout Austria. As Carinthia possesses several advantages, encompassing diversified industries, a tech innovation hub with the “Green Tech Valley”, and a strategic position bordering Italy and Slovenia, advancing cooperation in this territory represents a judicious opportunity for both sides.

• https://www.at.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_de/12_taishi20250626.html