Duluth, September 22, 2025 – The Consul General of Japan in Atlanta, Mio Maeda, honored two longtime champions of Georgia–Japan relations with the prestigious Consul General’s Commendation Award during a special reception at this year’s JapanFest, held at Gas South District.
Former Georgia-Japan Legislative Caucus Co-Chairs Teri Anulewicz and David Knight were recognized for their years of service in strengthening cultural, economic, and legislative ties between Japan and the state of Georgia. Both leaders have been instrumental in fostering dialogue, supporting Japanese investment in the state, and promoting mutual understanding between communities.
The ceremony, hosted at the Consul General’s reception during JapanFest, drew an audience of distinguished guests, including business executives, community leaders, state representatives, and friends of the Japanese Consulate.
Adding to the significance of the evening, State Representative Matthew Gambill, current Co-Chair of the Georgia-Japan Legislative Caucus, presented Consul General Maeda and Mrs. Maeda with the Honorable Georgia Citizen Award. The honor, one of Georgia’s highest recognitions for international partners, highlighted Consul General Maeda’s commitment to deepening people-to-people connections and advancing bilateral cooperation.
“Georgia and Japan share more than just economic partnerships – we share enduring friendships,” noted Representative Gambill during the presentation.
The ceremony underscored Georgia’s growing role as a hub for Japanese business and culture in the Southeast, and JapanFest provided a fitting backdrop for celebrating these enduring relationships. – Georgia Asian Times
