Prof. Hidetoshi Nishimura, Executive Director and senior staffs of ERIA warmly welcomed his visit. H.E. Mr. Yoshikawa has also served as Secretary-General of Parliamentary League for ERIA and has been one of the strong supporters of ERIA since its establishment.

He has previously attended the official opening of ERIA Annex Office on September 17, 2008, in his capacity as the senior Vice Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry.

Prof. Nishimura expressed his gratitude for the numerous support from the Minister extended to ERIA. He updated the Minister on ERIA's recent activities especially in the food and agriculture sectors. H.E. Mr. Yoshikawa was touched by the development and growth of ERIA in the past five years since he last visited ERIA. He had a conversation with economists of ERIA and encouraged them continue the good work.