Boston Global Forum and Michael Dukakis Institute honored JAPANESE ECONOMIC SECURITY MINISTER SANAE TAKAICHI, WITH THE WORLD LEADER IN AIWS AWARD 2023

Remarks of Governor Michael Dukakis Honoring JAPANESE ECONOMIC SECURITY MINISTER SANAE TAKAICHI 2023 World Leader in AI World Society Award Harvard University Faculty Club, April 26, 2023

Ladies and gentlemen,

It is my great honor today to give Japanese Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi the World Leader in AIWS Award for 2023.

Minister Takaichi has dedicated her career to promoting economic growth, social equity, and technological innovation in Japan and beyond.

Affiliated with Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party and a member of the House of Representatives since 1993, she has served as Japan’s Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications, Minister of State for Okinawa and Northern Territories Affairs, Minister of State for Economic and Fiscal Policy and, most recently, Minister of State for Economic Security.

In her latest position, she had made significant contributions to Japan’s national security and economic policies. She has been instrumental in strengthening Japan’s cybersecurity and protecting its critical infrastructure, including its power grids and financial system, from cyber-attacks. And she has been actively involved in developing Japan’s economic policies, including fostering innovation, investing in technology, addressing the nation’s labor shortage, and managing the country’s aging population.

Under her leadership, Japan has taken steps to improve its economic security, including the establishment of a new agency dedicated to cybersecurity and the development of a comprehensive strategy for promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. She has also played an important role in strengthening Japan’s economic and security relationships with other countries, including the United States.

More broadly, Minister Takaichi’s achievements and contributions as the Minister of State for Economic Security have focused on ensuring Japan’s long-term economic growth and stability, while also addressing the challenges posed by digital-age security threats. Her leadership in promoting responsible AI is a model for other leaders, a model that will ensure for all of us a more peaceful and prosperous world.

My warmest congratulations, on behalf of the Boston Global Forum and the AI World Society, to Minister Sanae Takaichi on this richly deserved award.