Caroline Kennedy sworn in as US ambassador to Japan
Washington's new ambassador to Japan continues her family's illustrious history of diplomatic service as the US pivots towards Asia
Caroline Kennedy, the new US ambassador to Japan and daughter of slain President John F Kennedy, leaves Washington for Japan on Thursday to begin her work to strengthen the critical bond between the US and the Asian nation.
Kennedy, who was confirmed by the US Senate last month, was nominated for the ambassador’s job by President Barack Obama after playing a role in his re-election campaign. Secretary of State John Kerry hosted a swearing-in ceremony for Kennedy on Tuesday afternoon at the State Department.
“We just had a tea ceremony, which was a wonderful introduction to the Japanese culture,” Kennedy said at a reception later at the Japanese ambassador’s residence.
“My husband and I and my children are so excited to be going to Japan,” she said in brief remarks to reporters. “We look forward to meeting as many people as we can, to making new friends, visiting and studying the history and culture of this beautiful country that is such a strong partner to the United States in so many important efforts.”
US ambassador Kennedy meets Japan emperor
At the reception, Kerry noted that Kennedy’s father battled Japanese forces as a Navy officer in the second world war.