Tokyo Or Bust: Detroit Mayor To Visit Japan On First International Trip
DETROIT (AP) - Mike Duggan will visit Japan on his first international trip as Detroit mayor.
Duggan will make stops in Toyota City and Tokyo during the July 24-28 visit.
The trip marks the 55th anniversary of Detroit's Sister Cities relationship with Toyota City.
"The 55th anniversary of the Sister Cities program is a natural opportunity to continue a conversation between our two cities about how we can engage, collaborate and partner to serve our economic growth and cultural exchange," Duggan said in a statement.
The mayor's office says the trip presents an opportunity to lay groundwork for Japanese businesses to consider further investment in Detroit. Duggan will also tell of Detroit's recovery following the largest municipal bankruptcy in U.S. history.
"In today's business world, international relations are an integral part of strong national, state and local economies," said Duggan. "Detroit has long played a significant role in international trade. There are currently approximately 40,000 people employed by Japanese industries in Michigan. This trip will build on that history and lay the groundwork for the expansion of jobs for Detroiters."
He will be joined by his wife, Lori Maher; city Group Executive for Jobs & Economy Tom Lewand and his wife; and State Department senior advisor Julie Egan.
Delta Airlines is providing airfare for the trip. Other expenses will be covered by the Japan America Society of Michigan and Southwestern Ontario. No taxpayer money will be used.
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