Tomoyuki Ishigaki, the new Deputy Chief of Mission at the Brazilian Embassy, has embarked on an active schedule since assuming his post last November. Recently, he paid a visit to São Paulo on November 11 to extend greetings and discuss his future duties.
Born in 1972 and hailing from Kanagawa Prefecture, Ishigaki graduated from Amherst College after starting his studies at the University of Tokyo. His diplomatic career has included prominent positions such as Counselor at Japan's Permanent Mission to the United Nations and Director of the Climate Change Division at the Foreign Ministry.
At the Brazilian Embassy, Ishigaki is tasked with managing and overseeing operations, stepping in for the Ambassador when necessary. His broad experience, including lectures at Keio University, positions him uniquely for this role. Notably, he is also passionate about marathon running, reading, and watching science fiction films.
Reflecting on his early encounters with Brazil, Ishigaki recounted his first visit as a student back in 1991, during which he observed the country's hyperinflation. He noted, "I was astounded by how prices seemed to rise almost instantaneously." Since then, as a diplomat, he has participated in discussions with Brazilian counterparts and has admired the negotiation skills of Brazilian diplomats, particularly within multinational forums such as climate change negotiations and the World Trade Organization (WTO).
This year, the state of Pará will host the COP30 conference on climate change, and Ishigaki has already initiated on-site surveys to prepare for Japan's participation. Drawing from his experience as the former head of climate change policy, he expressed, "The significance of holding COP30 in the Amazon is immense. While there are challenges in preparing, I feel deeply fulfilled working toward its success."
During his recent visit, Ishigaki also toured the Brazilian Japanese Immigration Museum, where he connected with the deep history of Japanese immigrants in Brazil. Reflecting on this experience, he stated, "I felt my heart swell when I realized the history of Japanese immigrants through the exhibitions."
Highlighting the importance of relationship-building between the two nations, Ishigaki remarked, "This year marks an important milestone of 130 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and Brazil. With President Lula's upcoming visit to Japan, we have exciting projects planned for the future. I am committed to working hard as Deputy Chief of Mission for the friendship between our two countries."