A delegation headed by Director Misuguchi from the Department of International Affairs in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan visted the NEAR Secretariat on January 18 (Thursday) and held a meeting with Secretary-General Hong Jong-kyoung.  Secretary-General Hong stated that “The active participation of Hyogo Prefecture, a founding member of NEAR, has been the source of much support to the development of NEAR. Notable, the Subcommittee on Disaster Prevention, which is coordinated by Hyogo Prefecture has been highly praised and appreciated by other member regional governments. The Secretariat would also like to member regions for the continued interest and cooperation of member regions regarding the Subcommittee on Transportation and Logistics, and International Humanities Exchange.” Director Misguchi responded that Hyogo Prefecture, a city which has become internationalized around Kobe Port,  hopes to actively participate in NEAR and the various opportunities for exchange through the Subcommittees on Transportation and Logistics, International Humanities Exchange and Disaster Prevention.