Kenji Kanasugi

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Kenji Kanasugi (金杉 憲治, Kanasugi Kenji; born September 11, 1959) is the current Japanese ambassador to China. He is known for his extensive contributions to Japan's foreign relations in East Asia, particularly with China and the broader Asia–Pacific region. Joining Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1983, he has held numerous significant roles in Japanese government and foreign affairs throughout his career. Kanasugi's expertise spans both economic and regional diplomacy. Notable positions he has held include Director-General of the Economic Affairs Bureau and the Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau. His work involved managing key international relations, such as coordinating meetings between Japanese and Chinese leaders, including then-Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Chinese president Xi Jinping. Additionally, Kanasugi served as a Senior Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs in charge of economic issues, emphasizing his focus on economic diplomacy. In 2020, Kanasugi became Japan's ambassador to Indonesia, where he worked on strengthening bilateral ties and addressing regional challenges. In October 2023, he was appointed Japan's ambassador to China. This marked a strategic move as he became the first ambassador in seven years outside the “China School” (a group of diplomats with specialized training in Chinese language and affairs). His appointment reflects Japan's intent to manage sensitive issues with China, such as maritime territorial disputes and economic tensions, through pragmatic and diplomatic approaches. Kanasugi's tenure as ambassador to China focuses on critical issues, including addressing Beijing's concerns about Japan's wastewater release from the Fukushima nuclear plant. He emphasizes the need for calm, science-based dialogue to resolve conflicts and stabilize Japan-China relations.