A recent survey by the Education, Science and Technology Ministry revealed that a record 140,000 researchers went abroad in fiscal 2005. This is the largest number of Japanese scholars and scientists ever sent abroad to investigate the world outside Japan. These researchers, 10 percent more than in 2004, have been conducting ever more research in ever more diverse areas, establishing a body of knowledge that will contribute meaningfully to Japan's future.

Most of these researchers from universities, institutes and centers go to Europe and North America, but the number going to Africa jumped nearly 35 percent. Their ability to obtain data, develop fresh understanding, and be at ease with other cultures will transform academia, business and government policy far into the future.

The experience of this new group of world explorers will form a solid foundation for making crucial changes. They also serve as unofficial ambassadors, building friendships and representing Japan around the world.

Japan's tendency toward isolation may soon be relinquished to the cultural history books. These international research projects show that interest in matters abroad has moved from the superficial acquisition of foreign goods and fashion trends to more substantial and serious engagement. Participating in the larger international world of facts, critical assessments and accepted knowledge is no idle intellectual game. With more research conducted abroad, Japanese society can be informed by the studies of knowledgeable specialists and experienced researchers.

At the same time, foreign researchers have been coming to Japanese institutions in ever-larger numbers, with nearly 40,000 coming to Japan in 2005, a 10 percent increase over the previous year. This increase is evidence of expanded interest in Japanese technology, business, culture and language that extends far beyond the fleeting appeal of pop culture and anime videos. Japan is no longer just receiving, but offering a great deal to the global research community.