diplomacy

18
Mar
2026

Faith, Diplomacy, and the Journey of Understanding

I recently had the opportunity to speak with the Coming Home Network about the importance of faith in my life and career. We discussed topics ranging from family and relationships to how engaging with people of different faith traditions has shaped my understanding of myself and others. We also explored how a career in diplomacy has broadened my worldview in meaningful and lasting ways.

The full interview can be viewed on my Media & Interviews page, where I share additional conversations on leadership and global engagement, or directly here.

Conversations like this are a reminder that diplomacy today is not just about governments—it’s about connecting people, ideas, and opportunities across borders.

Posted by reimanko in Global Affairs & Diplomacy, 0 comments
01
Jan
2026
U.S.–Japan Relations in 2026: Engaging Future Japanese Leaders

U.S.–Japan Relations in 2026: Engaging Future Japanese Leaders

Looking toward 2026, I was inspired to engage with emerging Japanese leaders at the prefectural and municipal levels, including a Vice Governor, a Prefectural Assembly Member and son of the Prime Minister, and a Mayor, all committed to advancing U.S.–Japan relations at the grassroots level.

Posted by reimanko in Global Affairs & Diplomacy
08
Oct
2025

Lessons from One of America’s Greatest Diplomats

I recently had the privilege of connecting with Ambassador Bill Burns — a public servant whose career represents diplomacy at its best.

He demonstrated that effectiveness and decency are not competing traits. They reinforce each other.

Throughout his career bridging diplomacy and intelligence, he earned trust across political lines while maintaining humility and professionalism.

His example reminds us that leadership is not defined by volume or visibility, but by integrity, consistency, and respect for others.

In an age of noise, quiet competence remains powerful.

Bill Burns standing with the author in a posed photo.
Ambassador Bill Burns and Me
Posted by reimanko in Global Affairs & Diplomacy
19
Sep
2025

Japan, Immigration, and the Future Workforce

I recently had the privilege of meeting Dr. Arai Takashi — a longtime China analyst, former CSIS Japan Fellow, and researcher affiliated with the Tokyo Institute of Technology — to discuss immigration policy and foreign community integration in Kanagawa Prefecture.

Japan faces a historic demographic challenge: a rapidly aging society and declining population. While automation, AI, and robotics will help mitigate labor shortages, technology alone cannot fully address workforce gaps. Immigration policy and successful integration of foreign residents will play an increasingly central role in Japan’s economic sustainability.

Dr. Arai recently participated in the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) in Yokohama and is conducting research on Japan’s relations with the Middle East — regions that may become increasingly relevant in future migration and labor partnerships.

Our discussion reinforced a growing reality: Japan’s long-term prosperity will depend not only on innovation, but also on its openness to people.

His remarkable personal library — only a fraction visible behind us — reflects decades of research dedicated to understanding global demographic change and international cooperation.

Discussion with Japanese policy researcher on immigration and aging population workforce challenges in Japan.
Discussing immigration, demographics, and workforce challenges in Japan with Dr. Arai Takashi.
Posted by reimanko in Leadership & Identity
01
Aug
2025

Supporting Arizonans and Federal Workers Who Serve the Public Good Daily. Thank you!

Thank you, Senator Kelly, for your steadfast support of Arizonans, for recognizing the vital contributions of federal employees—both Foreign Service Officers and Civil Servants—in safeguarding our nation, and for your continued dedication to public service.

ケリー上院議員に心より感謝申し上げます。アリゾナ州民への揺るぎないご支援、米国外交官および公務員による国家安全保障への重要な貢献をご認識いただき、さらに公共サービスへの継続的なご尽力に、深く敬意を表します。今後とも宜しくお願い致します。

Meeting with Senator Mark Kelly discussing federal employees and public service
Discussion on public service and the role of federal employees with Senator Mark Kelly.
Posted by reimanko in Leadership & Identity
11
May
2021

Honoring My Parents and My Dual Heritage

Honored to be featured in a podcast interview here: Ken Reiman – Mantra Media (mantrahq.com) where I discuss leadership, Asian American Heritage Month, the role of mothers and parents, and my book. My journey is not possible without the love, kindness, and sacrifice of my parents and grandparents. For them, my sons, and the future, my book and podcast interview are dedicated. Listen to the podcast and let me know your thoughts.

 

Posted by reimanko in Leadership & Identity
28
Jun
2020

5 Reasons for Dual Nationality: Reason #4

Pressuring or forcing dual nationals to renounce one of their citizenships communicates that love of country must equate to love of the country’s government – as opposed to communicating government’s duty to earn the love of its citizens.

 

Posted by reimanko in Global Affairs & Diplomacy
27
Jun
2020

5 Reasons for Dual Nationality: Reason #2

For as long as man has kept written history, leaders have recognized that dual nationality is a tool to keep the peace. Emperors and kings frequently married the offspring of rulers from other nations thereby creating a dual national in their spouse while encouraging peace and cooperation between the nations.

Posted by reimanko in Global Affairs & Diplomacy
01
Dec
2019

EBook/Kindle Version Out!

Happy to announce the Kindle version of my memoir Love Both Keep Both came out on Black Friday 11/29/2019 via Amazon for those of you who requested an eBook version. The book is available for purchase here.

Thanks to Indigo River Publishing and everyone who was involved in this project. Thankful to all my supports, friends, and family. Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Ken

Posted by reimanko in Writing & Reflections