I am Endo of Sumitomo Corporation of Americas. As of April, I have succeeded our former Chairman, Mr. Kawakami, and assumed the position of Chairman of the Japan Business Association of Houston.

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Having been assigned to Houston only recently, I have been entrusted with this significant responsibility at a very early stage of my tenure here. While I feel a great sense of responsibility and pressure, I will do my utmost, albeit in a modest capacity, to contribute to the further development of our Association with the guidance and support of all of our members. I sincerely ask for your continued support and cooperation. I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all of our past chairmen for their dedication and contributions over the years.

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Through my work in the energy business, I have had professional ties with Houston for many years. However, my previous overseas assignments were in Indonesia and South Africa, and this is my first expatriate assignment in Houston. As I establish both my life and work here and interact daily with members of the local community, I have come to appreciate even more deeply the diversity, openness, and the strong presence and depth of the Japanese business community in Houston.

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While Houston is built upon its energy industry foundation, it continues to grow in sectors such as healthcare, technology, and aerospace. I believe Houston will continue to play an important role not only in the United States but also in the global economy. In such an environment, I feel that the role of the Japan Business Association has become increasingly important for Japanese companies conducting business in this region.

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In addition to promoting cooperation and friendship among member companies, our Association has an important mission to help create an environment in which those working in the Houston area and their families can live safely and enjoy fulfilling lives. Although my own experience with Association activities is still limited, I will sincerely devote my efforts to advancing the Association’s three key missions of “Partnership,” “Friendship,” and “For the Next Generation,” while also benefiting from the support of the Consulate-General of Japan and other related organizations.

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I recognize that there may be areas where I fall short, and I humbly ask for your guidance and encouragement. I also sincerely request your continued understanding, support, and cooperation.