The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) celebrated 50 years of continuous representation in Japan, recognizing YKK Corporation of America Vice President Jessica Cork with the Governor George Busbee Award during a state mission to the country this week. The mission celebrated the long history of Japanese investment in the state and highlighted ongoing partnerships in Japan, including Georgia’s role as a charter member in the Southeast U.S.-Japan Alliance. The organization’s annual meeting was hosted in Tokyo this week.
“If you look back at where the South was in 1973, it’s incredibly forward-looking for Georgia leadership to pursue international relationships as a way of creating prosperity and job opportunities for Georgians,” said Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Georgia’s commitment to long-term partnerships means companies become part of the fabric of their community here. When a company invests in Georgia, it becomes a Georgia company, which has led to the success of many international companies across the state. Thank you to the decades of partners who have supported new opportunities in every corner of the state.”
In 1973, the State of Georgia established economic development representation in Japan. Japan established a consular presence in Georgia the following year in 1974, and Atlanta is home to the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO).
The Governor George Busbee Award recognizes enduring commitment, dedication, and leadership in advancing strong relationships between the State of Georgia and Japan. To assure the highest possible qualifications and most-exemplary recipients, the State of Georgia may elect not to present this award every year. The last award was presented in 2012 to Charles Lake, then-Chairman of Aflac Japan, who shortly afterward, added President of Aflac International to his leadership roles with the company.
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