Press Releases

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07) joined the Congressional Escort Committee for the Joint Session of Congress with His Excellency Kishida Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan.  

As a member of the Congressional Escort Committee, Rouzer joined several House and Senate colleagues in leading Prime Minister Kishida into the House Chamber and participated in a meet and greet with the Prime Minister prior to his address.

"The U.S.-Japan alliance is strong in North Carolina, including in the Cape Fear Region where Japanese investments create jobs, help expand our national energy security, and contribute to the economic well-being of our farm families," said Congressman Rouzer.  "I was proud to welcome Prime Minister Kishida to the U.S. Capitol to recognize the role of a strong U.S.-Japan Alliance in securing a free and open Indo-Pacific.  Japan is a pivotal ally and at a time of global instability, it is critical to reinforce cooperation between our two countries to ensure that liberty and prosperity survive."

Congressman Rouzer is a Member of the House Committee on Agriculture, where he supports efforts, such as the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement, to ensure North Carolina farm families gain greater access to the Japanese market to help strengthen farm revenues.

As his guest to the Joint Address, Congressman Rouzer was joined by a representative from Japan Tobacco International, a global tobacco manufacturing company with large investments in North Carolina's agriculture and manufacturing sectors.

Japanese companies have a strong history of investment in North Carolina, totaling about 225 companies with 500 locations.  Japan also represents the largest foreign investor in North Carolina's economy and people.  NC State University's NC Japan Center focuses on the bilateral relationship by promoting business ties, bolstering academic collaboration, and fostering a greater understanding of Japan's footprint in North Carolina.