It was a night of sparkling dialogue, diplomacy and saké at the WA-Japan Conversation Series: Hon. Colin Barnett AC’s reflections on WA-Japan. “WA is open for business, but we need the right settings in place,” was a sentiment that echoed throughout the night.

We were delighted to welcome former WA Premier Hon. Colin Barnett AC, Deputy Mayor City of Perth Cr Bruce Reynolds, and Senior Members of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Mr Masahisa Miyazaki MP, and Mr Hiroaki Tabata MP.

Before exploring the ever-evolving strategic relationship between WA and Japan, guests enjoyed stimulating discussions energised by sparkling sake provided by Kodawari Sake’s Sandra Gwee.

Mr Barnett reflected on his path to Opposition Leader, evolution to Minister for State Development, Energy, Education, and ultimate ascension to WA Premier. From North-West Shelf gas contracts to BHP and Rio Tinto iron royalties, the rise of China, and Hyogo’s koala connection, Mr Barnett’s story had it all.

Mr Barnett’s deep connection to Asia, particularly China and Japan, and strong relationships with key corporate and governmental leaders, helped to position two of WA’s biggest economic partnerships. Mr Barnett was a State-building Premier.

AJBCWA partnered with Jackson McDonald to bring together the WA-Japan business community for an insightful conversation on the need to strengthen WA-Japan ties at a pivotal time for the sectors of energy and mining. In case you missed it, here’s a recap of last week’s Conversation Series:

💬 ***Conversations***
🌏 Digitisation, economy, workforce, and the energy transition are top of mind for Japanese policymakers.
🌏 Miyazaki-san highlighted the need for a balanced energy mix, with LNG playing a key role in decarbonisation.
🌏 WA’s ongoing support for CCS and green ammonia is critical to unlocking Japanese investment.
🌏 Ties between WA-Japan are more critical than ever, with Japan focusing on hydrogen and LNG.
🌏 China is streets ahead in hydrogen, so more collaboration is required to catch up and make hydrogen work.

🥂***Networking***
The conversations didn’t stop there with guests lapping up the unique opportunity to meet senior members of the National Diet of Japan, Deputy Director, Treasury & Finance, Judicial Affairs, Information Research, Miyazaki-san, and State Minister for Internal Affairs & Communications Tabata-san.

🙏***Thanks***
Thanks to our incredible speakers, Mr Barnett, Miyazaki-san, and Tabata-san, and our board members, partners, and supporters. You made the night a uniquely WA-Japan experience. Special thanks to Jackson McDonald’s Eva Lin for hosting our Series.

It was another great success for AJBCWA as we continue to develop opportunities to strengthen people-to-people connections across the sphere of business and culture 🌏🤝🗾.