Durbin Statement Following the Joint Session of Congress with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida

Press Release

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“Today’s Joint Session of Congress is a reminder of the importance of reaffirming our critical international relationships that have been at the forefront of President Biden’s first term. Japan is an important, long time U.S. ally and strategic partner in Asia, particularly in light of continued challenges with North Korea and China. Its participation in recent NATO Summits has also been a welcome addition to the broader alliance of democracies. It was also an honor to welcome my guest, Ross Harano, to the U.S. Capitol. Mr. Harano and his family endured cruel hardships during the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II—a painful stain on our nation’s history. Once he settled in Illinois, Mr. Harano became a leader in the Chicagoland area and an active member of the Asian American community. He has made our city a more vibrant place and I look forward to our continued discussions to help our Japanese American Illinoisans.”

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