H.E. Kazuyoshi Akaba, State Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan visited ERIA on September 27, 2013 and Prof. Hidetoshi Nishimura, Executive Director of ERIA and some senior officials warmly welcomed the visit of State Minister.

Prof. Nishimura briefly explained on ERIA's history since its establishment and introduced recent activities including ERIA's major flagship projects. State Minister noted ERIA's development and its efforts toward community building in the region and expressed his expectation to ERIA's future activities and contributions to the region. Both parties shared common views on the potential growth in ASEAN and East Asia.