Georgetown University, Amway Japan and The Japan Times are now seeking participants for the 12th Georgetown University Leadership Program (GULP), to take place from Oct. 14 to 21. Applicants should be involved in politics, policymaking or journalism. The application deadline is July 27.

To apply, visit www.gulpjapan.com/guidance/12th.

The 11th GULP saw 11 young Japanese politicians and journalists travel to Washington D.C. and Grand Rapids, Michigan, from April 29 to May 6 to study U.S. politics, society and bilateral relations, as well as develop contacts with their American counterparts.

In Washington D.C., participants studied under world-famous Georgetown University professors such as Michael Green, who discussed security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, and Sam Potolicchio, who spoke on American federalism and global leadership. They also visited the office of Nancy Pelosi, Democratic leader of the U.S. House of Representatives, as well as the State Department and the Japanese embassy. Irene Hirano Inouye, president of the U.S.-Japan Council, delivered the keynote address at a gala welcome dinner.

In Grand Rapids, the delegation met with Mayor Rosalynn Bliss and other political, civic and business leaders, including Amway Chairman Steve Van Andel.

GULP organizers and sponsors believe private sector-supported exchanges between Japan and the U.S. play an important role in strengthening mutual understanding and cooperation between the United States and Japan.

GULP is organized by Georgetown University, renowned for its political science and international relations programs. It is co-sponsored by Amway Japan and The Japan Times, and is supported by the U.S. embassy in Tokyo and the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This content is compiled by JT Media Enterprise Division.