Courtesy Visit to Tzu Chi Foundation Japan Branch
In mid-February, PBV visited the office of the Tzu Chi Foundation’s Japan branch. In the aftermath of the Noto Earthquake in January and the Hualien Earthquake in Taiwan in April, 2024, both organizations were actively involved in disaster relief in affected areas. The year 2024 provided an opportunity for exchanging information and supporting each other’s activities amidst the disaster sites in Japan and Taiwan. Located just one train stop apart, PBV’s Secretary General, Mr. Ueshima, and International Coordinator, Ms. Suzuki paid a courtesy visit to the Japan branch of the Tzu Chi Foundation, marking a significant step in strengthening humanitarian cooperation between the two organizations.
We were warmly received by the Executive Director of the Japan Branch, Ms. Kyo and the Deputy Executive Director, Ms. Hayashi, who provided updates on the Hualien Earthquake and the subsequent living conditions of the affected people. They also expressed gratitude for PBV’s continued support. Mr. Ueshima offered insights into the situation in Noto, where communities continue to grapple with the earthquake’s impact more than a year later. He outlined PBV’s current relief and recovery activities in the region.
The visit highlighted the global reach of Tzu Chi Foundation’s emergency relief efforts, which extend far beyond Taiwan and Noto. Tzu Chi Foundation has been actively involved in assisting Ukrainian refugees in neighboring countries following the 2022 crisis, as well as providing aid after the devastating Turkey-Syria Earthquake and the wildfires in Maui Island, Hawaii in 2023.
This shared experience across diverse disaster zones underscores the potential for closer collaboration and partnership between the two organizations in the future. By leveraging our respective networks, expertise and operational strengths, PBV and Tzu Chi Foundation are well-positioned to enhance our collective impact in responding to future humanitarian crises.