Tokyo, September 7, 2026 - Ambassador Yerlan Baudarbek-Kozhatayev held a meeting with Kenji Ozeki, Director of the Matsushita Institute of Government and Management.
Mr. Ozeki noted that the Institute, founded in 1979 by the renowned Japanese entrepreneur and founder of Panasonic Corporation, Konosuke Matsushita, specializes in nurturing future leaders and developing human capital for public service, politics, business, and the broader social sector. It was particularly noted that among the Institute’s distinguished alumni is Japan’s current Prime Minister and President of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, Sanae Takaichi.
During the meeting, the sides discussed prospects for expanding academic, intellectual, and expert exchanges between Kazakhstan and Japan, including in the areas of public policy and international relations. They emphasized the important role of such exchanges in further strengthening the Enhanced Strategic Partnership between the two countries.
In his turn, Ambassador briefed the Institute’s leadership on the key outcomes of the political and socio-economic reforms being implemented in Kazakhstan, as well as on the country’s role in advancing international cooperation on pressing global issues. Particular attention was given to Kazakhstan’s initiatives as a “middle power” capable of serving as a platform for dialogue and the pursuit of mutually acceptable solutions to issues on the international agenda.
Mr. Ozeki expressed the Institute’s interest in expanding engagement with Kazakhstan. In particular, the Institute’s leadership and participants intend to visit various regions of Kazakhstan in November 2026 to gain first-hand insight into the progress and outcomes of the reforms being implemented in the country, as well as to explore opportunities for further developing bilateral ties. The visit is expected to include meetings with representatives of Kazakhstan’s government bodies, business community, academia, and civil society organizations.
Following the meeting, the sides agreed to organize a special lecture by the Ambassador for the Institute’s faculty and students as part of preparations for the upcoming visit to Kazakhstan.
Background: The Matsushita Institute of Government and Management differs from a conventional institution of higher education. Its primary focus is on the rigorous selection of talented young Japanese people and the development of their practical skills and knowledge in such areas as national and regional governance, social policy, and business. The Institute’s alumni include members of the Government, Members of the National Diet, public figures, regional leaders, and executives of major corporations.
