Apr

12

Taiwan Minister to Address Senate Committee on Transportation and International Affairs

International Affairs / Press Releases

Honolulu –  Minister Jung-Tzer Lin, Taiwan Executive Yuan Minister without Portfolio and Governor of Taiwan Province, will be addressing the Senate Committee on Transportation and International Affairs at an informational briefing on Monday, April 15, 2013 at 10 a.m., in the State Capitol’s Conference Room 414.

Minister Lin will be discussing the significance of strengthening the existing sister-state relationship between Taiwan and the State of Hawai‘i, which was established in 1993.

We should continuously look for ways to strengthen our sister-state relationship with Taiwan.  With the recent addition of Taiwan to the United States Visa Waiver Program, our economy is expected to get a boost from an increased number of visitors from the region,” said Senator J. Kalani English, chair of the Senate Committee on Transportation and International Affairs.

To strengthen ties with Taiwan, the Legislature recently adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution 61.  The measure urges the Governor, Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism; Board of Regents of the University of Hawaii; Board of Education and Hawaii congressional delegation to strengthen the sister-state relationship with Taiwan in commemoration of the twentieth anniversary of the sister-state relationship between Hawai‘i and Taiwan.

Senator English will be presenting a certified copy of the resolution to Minister Lin during the informational briefing.

Hawai‘i and Taiwan benefit greatly from this sister-state relationship.  Along with the cultural exchange, ideas on the development of clean energy can be shared as well as many other important policymaking matters,” said Senator English.  “It’s a win-win relationship.”

Posted by | 0 comments
Apr

05

Conference Discusses Impacts of Climate Change in the Pacific Islands

International Affairs / Press Releases

((L-R): Senator J. Kalani English, Tony deBrum, Minister in Assistance to the President of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and Tarcisius Kabutaulaka, Waves of Change Conference organizer,a the conference.)

Honolulu–  A conference called, “Waves of Change” is underway at the University of Hawaii-Manoa’s East-West Center and Kamakakuokalani Center for Hawaiian Studies.  The conference, which began yesterday, discusses the environmental, social, cultural, political, economic, and legal impacts of climate change in the Pacific Islands, including Hawaii.

While the issue of climate change has been an ongoing discussion for years, this conference brings to light how the Pacific Islands are already experiencing its impact,”said Senator J. Kalani English, chair of the Senate Committee on Transportation and International Affairs.   He is among several policymakers,natural scientists, academics, university students, and community members attending the event.

Related migration and the implications of climate change for Hawaii, which is already home to many Pacific Islanders, will also be discussed.

Due to the changing climate, there is potential for increased migration from the Pacific Islands to the State of Hawaii,” said Senator English.  “Islanders believe Hawaii is able to provide them the economic security and welfare they need, which has become challenging to achieve because of how climate change is impacting their home.”

The Pacific Islands Regional Climate Assessment report released in December 2012 warns that Hawaii and other Pacific Islands have experienced “higher average surface air temperature;decreased groundwater discharge to streams over the past century; more frequent and prolonged drought; and habitat changes affecting native species” as a result of climate change.

It is important that we become aware of these major shifts in our environment so that we can address the issues and take action to reduce the impact of climate change today for the future generations,” added Senator English.

Prior to elected office, Senator English worked at the United Nations (UN) in New York as an advisor to the permanent mission of the Federated States of Micronesia.  He continues to be active with the United Nations Development Programme, a global development network advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience and resources to help people build a better life. The UNDP exists in 177countries, working with them on their own solutions to global and national development challenges.

Posted by | 0 comments
Jul

03

Senator J. Kalani English to Attend Asia Pacific Forum in Tahiti

International Affairs / Press Releases

Honolulu- Senator J. Kalani English will be attending the Club de Madrid Asia Pacific Forum, “Building a More Resilient Pacific in the 21st Century World Order,” on July 5 and 6, 2012 in Papeete, Tahiti.  Hosted by the Club de Madrid and the Government of French Polynesia, the forum is aimed at identifying and discussing strategies to promote greater socio-economic development in the Pacific and render the region more resilient, connected to the world, and capable of effectively delivering to its citizens.

Hawaii and other communities in the Pacific cannot sit idly by and watch the world evolve around us,” said Senator J. Kalani English, Chair of the Senate Committee on Transportation and International Affairs. “Hawaii’s unique geographical position, history, and diverse ethnic and cultural ties with others in the Pacific have played pivotal roles in the shaping of our socio-economic position in the world. It is important that we continue to work together with our friends in the Pacific to build on each others’ strengths and encourage a better, more sustainable future for all.”

This forum is the first major gathering that the Club de Madrid, the world’s largest forum of former Heads of State and Government, has ever organized in the Asia Pacific.  Leaders, policymakers, and scholars both from in and outside the Asia Pacific region will come together during the forum to address a wide range of issues, including geopolitical, socio-economic and environmental.

Posted by | 0 comments
Jun

15

Hawaii and Hiroshima Prefecture Celebrate 15th Anniversary of Sister-State Relationship

International Affairs / Press Releases

(Senator Brian Taniguchi meets with the Governor of Hiroshima, Hidehiko Yuzaki.)

Honolulu- Senator Brian T. Taniguchi joined fellow sister-state delegates during the month of May to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the sister-state relationship between the State of Hawaii and Hiroshima Prefecture. Held in Hiroshima from May 29 to 31, 2012, the commemoration included an economic forum featuring the State of Hawaii Division of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, meetings for the U.S. Japan Council, a 15TH Anniversary Sister-State Celebration and a “Hawaii Day” promotion at the Mazda Zoom Zoom Stadium during a baseball game of the Hiroshima Carps.

(Senator Brian Taniguchi speaks at a business seminar in Hiroshima for the 15th anniversary of the sister-state relationship between the State of Hawaii and Hiroshima Prefecture.)

Hiroshima Prefecture and the State of Hawaii share innumerous ties spanning across more than 100 years. In the early years of the arrival of Japanese to Hawaii, many Japanese immigrants were from Hiroshima Prefecture.

Historically, the State of Hawaii and Hiroshima Prefecture are forever linked as World War II in the Pacific started with the unfortunate attack by the Japanese on Pearl Harbor in Honolulu, Oahu on December 7, 1941 and ended with the tragic bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945.

Fifteen years ago, on May 30, 1997, a sister-state relationship was formed to promote a friendship, cultural ties, and good will between the State of Hawaii and the Hiroshima Prefecture. Since then leaders of the two states have worked collaboratively to strengthen this sister-state bond through numerous educational, cultural, athletics, commercial exchanges and peace initiatives.

At the 15th Anniversary banquet, retired Senate President Norman Mizuguchi, who conceived the idea of creating a sister-state, was honored with a proclamation from Hiroshima Governor Hidehiko Yuzaki and Hiroshima Prefecture for initiating the sister-state relationship.

A possible “Hawaii” celebration to commemorate the 15th Anniversary of the Sister-State Relationship is being planned for late August 2012.

The myriad of historic ties that exist between the State of Hawaii and Hiroshima Prefecture have forged a special bond between our two states,” said Senator Taniguchi, vice chair of the Hiroshima Hawaii Sister-State Committee. “I am extremely honored to have had the opportunity to take part in this celebration and I look forward to our continued work together.”

Posted by | 0 comments
Mar

20

Statement on the Passing of King George Tupou V of Tonga

International Affairs / Press Releases

HONOLULU — Senator J. Kalani English, Senate Committee on Transportation and International Affairs Chairman, released the following statement on the passing of Tonga’s King George Tupou V.

I express my deep condolences to the people of Tonga, as well as Hawaii’s Tongan community on the passing of King George Tupou V.   His foresight to grant his people democracy will be his legacy to Tonga. I want to express my deepest heartfelt aloha to His Majesty’s family and to the people of Tonga. The Pacific mourns for the loss of a great leader.”

Posted by | 0 comments
Feb

17

Senator Speaks at Forum on Micronesian Issues in Hawaii

In the Community / International Affairs / Press Releases

 Honolulu –  Senator J. English, who serves as chair of the Senate Committee on Transportation and International Affairs, was among several notable panelists at a forum called, “Micronesian Connections.”  Held yesterday, the forum was sponsored by the University of Hawaii at Manoa’s Ethnic Studies Department and Center for Pacific Island Studies.

The ideal in the United States is non-discrimination, however putting it into practice is the challenge,” said Senator English.   “There are so many productive members of the Micronesian community, but it’s unfortunate that the negative stories are the ones that gain attention.”

Students discussed personal stories of struggles and discrimination while experts in the field of health, housing and education discussed the status of the Micronesian community.

Senator English has been active with the Micronesian community.  Earlier this month, he hosted newly elected Republic of Marshall Islands President Christopher Loeak and First Lady Anono Lieom Loeak during their inaugural visit to Hawaii.

Senator English has been a strong supporter for the Center for Pacific Island Studies over the years.  The Center serves is both an academic department and a place that brings together people and resources to promote an understanding of the Pacific Islands.

The Center for Pacific Island Studies is a great place to begin discussion on how the community can improve the perception of Micronesians,” said Senator English.

 

Posted by | 0 comments
Feb

03

Republic of the Marshall Islands President Makes Inaugural Visit to Hawaii

International Affairs

(L-R) Noda Lojkar, Marshall Islands Consul General, State of Hawaii; Christopher deBrum , Chief of Staff to President Loeak; Tony deBrum, Minister in Assistance; President Christopher Loeak; Hawaii State Senator J. Kalani English; and Bruce Kijiner, Aide to President Loeak.

HONOLULU — Newly elected Republic of Marshall Islands President Christopher Loeak and First Lady Anono Lieom Loeak made their inaugural visit to Hawaii on February 2, 2012. President Loeak and his delegation met with Governor Neil Abercrombie as well as other state officials. While meeting with officials, President Loeak discussed issues relating to the Compact of Free Association and to reaffirm the RMI government’s commitment towards a mutually beneficial outcome to the significant issues.

“I would like to thank the people of Hawaii for their hospitality during my visit,” said Republic of Marshall Islands President Christopher Loeak. “Hawaii is such a beautiful place and we can see why many of our residents have chosen to make their home here. I thank the people of Hawaii for opening their hearts to them and for their generous compassion.”

“This was a wonderful opportunity to strengthen ties with the government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands as well as forge a relationship with their newly elected president,” said Senator J. Kalani English, Chair of the Senate Committee on Transportation and International Affairs. Last month, Senator English was invited by the United Nations Development Programme to conduct an Induction Seminar for the Nitjela (Parliament) of Marshall Islands in Majuro. The seminar was intended to support members and assist them in identifying a better use of the parliamentary process to support the delivery of Government services. Senator English spoke on topics including, responsible government, leadership roles, the role of the majority party and the importance of committee hearings.

Prior to being elected to the Hawaii State Legislature, Senator English worked at the United Nations in New York. He continues to be active with the organization, which has enabled him to be invited to participate in seminars such as the Induction Seminar for the Republic of the Marshall Islands’ Nitjela (Parliament).

“It is fulfilling to be able to help other countries improve their democratic system,” said Senator English.

Posted by | 0 comments
Jan

14

French Polynesia President Explores Opportunities to Link Tahiti and Hawai‘i

International Affairs / Press Releases

L-R: French Polynesia Minister of Agriculture Kalani Teixeira, Sen. President Shan Tsutsui, Sen. J. Kalani English, President Temaru, Sen. Pohai Ryan, Hawaii Board of Agriculture Chair Russell S. Kokubun and Director of Environmental Quality Control Gary L. Hooser

HONOLULU—His Excellency Oscar Manutahi Temaru, President of French Polynesia, wrapped up his week-long Hawai‘i visit on January 13, 2012. President Temaru and his four-member delegation were here to explore economic opportunities between Tahiti and Hawai‘i. President Temaru was accompanied by his Minister of Marine Resources Temauri Foster, Minister of Agriculture and Farming Kalani Teixeira, and Advisors Hiria Ottino and Teua Temaru.

“His Excellency Oscar Manutahi Temaru and his delegation have a deep connection to Hawai‘i through our Polynesian ancestors and they are looking to our State as a model to modernizing French Polynesia,” said Senator J. Kalani English, chair of the Senate Committee on Transportation and International Affairs.

During their visit, President Temaru and his delegation looked at ways to create business ventures between Tahiti and Hawai‘i as well as learn about Hawai‘i’s infrastructure and industries.

For insight on how to boost Tahiti’s economy, President Temaru and his delegation met with several heads in the tourism and trade industries. They met with Hawaiian Airlines, the Department of Business, Economic, Development and Tourism (DBEDT); the Hawai‘i Convention Center, Hawai‘i Tourism Authority and Matson Navigation Company.

President Temaru and his delegation looked into the agriculture industry and sustainability initiatives by meeting with leaders at the Department of Agriculture; Maui Invasive Species Committee; University of Hawai‘i-Maui, Sustainable Living Institute; University of Hawai‘i –Manoa, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources; the National Tropical Botanical Gardens’ breadfruit project and the Maui Arts & Cultural Center’s photovoltaic system.

To explore ways to improve safety and disaster management in Tahiti, President Temaru and his delegation visited the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies and Pacific Disaster Center.

The group also met with several State officials including Governor Neil Abercrombie, Senate President Shan Tsutsui, as well as other senators.

Posted by | 0 comments
Jun

04

English attends APIL General Assembly to discuss climate change in the Pacific Islands

Articles / International Affairs / Press Releases

Senator J. Kalani English has traveled to Tarawa, Republic of Kiribati, for the 29th General Assembly of the Association of Pacific Island Legislatures (APIL), which focuses on “Climate Change: Understanding the Challenges for our Pacific Islands.” The Assembly is scheduled to run from June 2 through June 7.

“The Republic of Kiribati is a particularly meaningful place for us to gather and discuss climate change,” English said. “It is made up of hundreds of low-lying atolls which are at the forefront of high sea rise and the potentially devastating effects of climate change. Most of the island countries, states and territories of the Pacific are the least to contribute to climate change, but are the most vulnerable to its effects.”

“Kiribati is our ‘canary in the coal mine’ when it comes to changes in sea levels,” English continued. “We may see the effects there first, but we will also eventually see them in Hawaii as well.”

“If the ocean around Hawaii were to rise three feet, Waikiki would be under water,” English said. “All of us across the Pacific, large and small, need to address these questions now, before it is too late.”

This is also English’s final General Assembly as president of APIL. He was elected to the post in May, 2008, after serving two terms as vice president.

“It has been an honor to help lead this very dedicated group,” he said. “We have had an opportunity to examine a number of areas of mutual interest where regional cooperation, coordination, exchange and assistance can help our individual governments achieve important goals through collective action. I’m glad that Hawai‘i has played a role in these efforts, and that I have had an opportunity to contribute whatever I could to the discussion.”

The APIL’s mission is to organize a permanent association of mutual assistance by representatives of the people of the Pacific Islands. Current issues before the APIL include those arising in the areas of Resources and Economic Development, Commerce, Legislation, Energy, Regional Security and Defense, Communications, Cultural Appreciation, Health and Social Services, Education, Agriculture, Air and Sea Transportation, Aquaculture, Sports and Recreation, Youth and Senior Citizens, Tourism, Finance, Political Status, External Relations, and Development Banking.

Among the Pacific Island states participating in the APIL are American Samoa; Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands; Federated States of Micronesia States of Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei, and Yap; Island of Guam; Republic of the Marshall Islands; Republic of Palau; State of Hawai‘i; Republic of Kiribati; and Republic of Nauru.

Posted by | 0 comments
Feb

10

Visit from a sister state

Articles / International Affairs

Senator Brian T. Taniguchi yesterday hosted and recognized eleven members of the Hiroshima Prefectural Assembly at the State Capitol. President Toshihiro Hiyama of the Hiroshima Prefectural Assembly and his fellow members are in Honolulu this week to promote their sister-state relationship with the State of Hawai`i.

Nearly twelve years ago, on May 30, 1997, a sister-state relationship was formed to promote friendship, cultural ties, and goodwill between our state and the Hiroshima Prefecture. Since then, leaders in the sister states have worked collaboratively to strengthen this bond through numerous cultural, educational and commercial exchanges.

Senator Taniguchi, whose paternal grandparents hail from Hiroshima, recalls spending one year following sixth grade living with his grandfather in a small town called Tanna. He applauded Mr. Hiyama and fellow members’ efforts to explore future exchanges and stated, “We are looking forward to meeting to discuss potential initiatives which we can jointly support.”  

Posted by | 0 comments
© Copyright Hawai'i Senate Majority Caucus - Theme by Pexeto