On April 14, 2025, Kansai University had the honor of welcoming His Excellency Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, for a special lecture titled “ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership: Partnership for Peace, Prosperity and People”.

Drawing from his extensive experience and distinguished career, Dr. Kao provided deep insights into the international political and economic challenges facing ASEAN and the broader Asian region. Dr. Kao emphasized the critical importance of collaboration and partnership with Japan in addressing these challenges.

Dr. Kao also highlighted the value of people-to-people exchanges between ASEAN and Japan, particularly among youth, underscoring the need to empower younger generations to drive reform and positive change for the future.

Approximately 125 students, faculty, and staff from Kansai University attended the lecture, listening attentively to each of Dr. Kao’s remarks. During the Q&A session that followed, participants engaged in a lively discussion, posing questions on a wide range of topics including international relations and economics, to which Dr. Kao responded thoughtfully and in detail, making the session especially enriching.

Prior to the lecture, Dr. Kao paid a courtesy visit to President Takahashi, during which they exchanged views on future collaboration between ASEAN and Kansai University.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Dr. Kao for taking the time from his busy schedule to deliver such a valuable lecture. We hope that this visit and his inspiring message will further strengthen the friendship between ASEAN and Kansai University, and lead to deeper educational, research, and cultural exchange in the years to come.