The U.S.-Japan Conference on Cultural and Educational Interchange (CULCON)

The U.S.-Japan Conference on Cultural and Educational Interchange (CULCON) is a bi-national advisory panel dedicated to strengthening U.S.-Japan relations through educational, cultural, and intellectual exchange. Established in 1961 at the direction of President John F. Kennedy and Prime Minister Hayato Ikeda, CULCON serves as a forum for dialogue and collaboration between leaders in government, academia, business, and the arts from both countries.

CULCON operates through a series of plenary sessions, working groups, and outreach initiatives. These activities are designed to identify challenges and opportunities in U.S.-Japan exchange, develop policy recommendations, and promote joint projects that foster mutual understanding and cooperation.

Key areas of focus for CULCON have historically included:

• Educational Exchange: Promoting student and scholar mobility between the U.S. and Japan, supporting language education, and facilitating institutional partnerships.
• Cultural Exchange: Encouraging artistic collaborations, exhibitions, and performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of both nations.
• Public Diplomacy: Strengthening people-to-people ties through dialogue programs, media initiatives, and citizen exchanges.
• Policy Recommendations: Providing advice to the U.S. and Japanese governments on issues related to bilateral relations, education, and cultural affairs.

CULCON's impact is realized through the implementation of its recommendations by government agencies, educational institutions, and private sector organizations. The organization plays a vital role in shaping the U.S.-Japan relationship and fostering a deeper understanding between the two countries. The Secretariat responsibilities alternate between the United States and Japan.