Asia Society Australia is delighted to announce Mr Tatsuya Terazawa as the new Asia Society-Victoria Distinguished Fellow. 

As Chairman and CEO of the Institute of Energy Economics, Japan (IEEJ), Mr Terazawa brings a wealth of experience and expertise in energy economics, climate issues, and international relations. In his role as Victorian Distinguished Fellow, Mr Terazawa will play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and strengthening ties between Victoria and Japan in the field of clean energies. 

Before joining IEEJ, Mr Terazawa held a series of senior positions in the Japanese Government, including as the Senior Advisor to Japan’s Cabinet Office and Vice Minister for International Affairs at the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Mr Terazawa also served as Executive Secretary to the Prime Minister during the government’s response to the Great East Japan Earthquake. 

Upon accepting the role, Mr Terazawa said he was excited about “the opportunity to contribute to further strengthening the strong ties between Australia and Japan which have been developed over the decades by the efforts of many people and companies of the two countries.” 

“Victoria is the leader in the energy transition. The first demonstration project to produce and transport clean hydrogen was conducted between Victoria and Japan. It is my belief that Victoria will be the ideal partner for Japan in its journey towards carbon neutrality”, said Mr Terazawa. 

“Australia and Japan have been solid partners in the trade of conventional energies including LNG and coal in the past decades. Today, I strongly believe that the two countries are well placed to form a new partnership in the trade of clean energies including hydrogen, ammonia and critical minerals.” 

Chief Executive Officer of Asia Society Australia, Mr Anthony Bubalo, welcomed Mr Terazawa to the Asia Society Australia team, as the 2023 Victorian Distinguished Fellow. 

“Mr Terazawa has led efforts to achieve carbon neutrality and  enhance energy security for governments and industries worldwide”, said Mr Bubalo. 

“His appointment reflects Asia Society Australia and the Victorian Government’s commitment to bringing world-leading expertise to Victoria from Asia, while also strengthening the partnership between Victoria and Japan.” 

“We are delighted to welcome Mr Terazawa as our 2023 Asia Society-Victoria Distinguished Fellow and look forward to working with him and the Victorian Government on this important initiative.” 

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Asia Society Australia-Victoria Distinguished Fellowship is a partnership between Asia Society Australia and the Victorian Government to bring the best minds and ideas from Asia and Australia to Victoria. It aims to generate new ideas and promote greater economic, strategic and cultural connectivity between Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. The Fellowship will showcase the state of Victoria as Australia's centre of excellence for Asia insights and capabilities. 

Asia Society Australia's appointment of Mr Terazawa as the 2023 Victoria-Distinguished Fellow is part of the larger Asia Society Year of Japan initiative, with programs and private briefings planned later in the year.