Congratulations to Mr Andrew Hay, former President of the Australia Japan Society – Queensland, on his recent conferment of The Foreign Minister’s Commendation. The award is presented by the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs, on behalf of the Japanese Government, to individuals who have made significant contributions to the friendship and strengthening of relations between Australia and Japan.
Andrew served as President of the Australia Japan Society – Queensland from 2011 to 2017. He has been instrumental in promoting understanding and friendship with Japan through a wide range of initiatives focusing on the strengthening of Sister State and Sister City relations, with Saitama Prefecture and Kobe City, in particular advancing sports diplomacy and university level ties in rugby union. A partner at Clayton Utz, Andrew has also been instrumental in fostering economic ties with Japan through the establishment of a Japan practice group and a lawyer exchange at the firm.
The Committee and members of the AJS-QLD thank Andrew for the work he has done and continues to do to foster Australia Japan relations and congratulate him on receiving this very well deserved award.