［October 2019］
Next Step after the Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan

As described in the CLAIR Sydney Newsletter No 130 Dec. 2018, the Japanese people know very well that the Rugby World Cup is a very special event for New Zealanders and Australians. Japanese people have wholeheartedly welcomed New Zealanders and Australians’ visit to all areas of Japan in these exciting weeks of the Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan.

Although it was a pity that neither the All Blacks, the Wallabies, nor the Brave Blossoms proceeded to the final match, Japanese people have been really impressed with all the players and ‘no side’ spirit of these three teams. I believe that the passion shared by the players, visitors and game spectators from New Zealand and Australia, and Japanese locals through the Rugby World Cup 2019 can easily transcend cultural and linguistic barriers. I think that this may be very good timing for your city to develop the existing ties with Japanese partners or initiate exchange activities with them.

If your city has any connections with the host cities or pregame host cities of the Rugby World Cup 2019, now is an excellent time to further develop these existing ties. Even if your city does not have connections with the host or pregame host cities specifically, this is likewise a good chance to further any existing relationships your city has with Japan. If your city is considering initiating any exchange activities with cities in Japan, now is the perfect opportunity.

I hope that your city will maximise the benefits which the Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan has to offer and utilise this special opportunity as a springboard to the next stage with your Japanese partners.