Connect with Japan
Kyoko Marumo Suzuki, as Science & Technology Office Tokyo Embassy of Switzerland in Japan, explains her vision and role in connecting the dots in science, research, technology, and innovation between Switzerland and Japan.
What is your vision for the Science & Technology Office (STO) in Tokyo for the next two years?
I am excited to share that the next two years present exceptional opportunities to highlight Swiss excellence in Japan, with the 160-year anniversary of diplomatic relations, the opening of a new honorary consulate in Hokkaido and with the upcoming World Expo 2025 Osaka/Kansai. We are planning a series of programmes for outreach and active exchange of knowledge and ideas to further strengthen Switzerland’s profile as a go-to destination for higher education, research and innovation. The aim is to create lasting impression and connections.
In line with the Swissnex network’s strategic efforts to strengthen relations with governments and framework programmes, the STO is also working closer with ministries and agencies to seek better conditions for our Swiss stakeholders. It goes without saying that our Swiss partners are the main actors. In addition, by joining forces with local partners, we broaden our reach and put Switzerland more in the spotlight at all levels. For example, we’ve organized a series of workshops on AI and robotics in partnership with a Japanese funding agency, a networking event for Swiss and international quantum experts who were invited to Tokyo by the Japanese government, and we are preparing a bilateral symposium on quantum with Japan’s biggest research institute.
Our events will continue to highlight significant topics for Switzerland. The signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation in science and innovation provides tailwind. We also cater to students and alumni, as well as industry partners including start-ups and investors through our events and upon individual requests.
Our collaboration with colleagues at Swissnex in Japan as well as the Swiss Business Hub Japan, other sections of the Embassy and of course, our international colleagues of the Swissnex network, is meant to maximize exposure for our stakeholders in the most effective manner. We are deeply committed to ensuring that our efforts contribute positively to the Swiss economy, whether it be immediately or over time.
What are the trending sectors wherein you can curate impactful collaborations with Switzerland?
There are major overlaps in the areas of strategic importance between Switzerland and Japan, reflecting the complex global challenges of today. Japan is accelerating efforts to promote green transformation (energy and environment), quantum, and AI. Robotics, space and earth, digital transformation, materials, life science including bio-engineering, neuroscience, medicine and health are also common focus areas.
In all these fields, Japan is stepping up efforts – and funding – to internationalise research and innovation. While there is high respect for the quality of Swiss research and innovation in Japan, it is difficult for them to prioritize Switzerland over countries like the US, UK, Germany which produce larger volumes of outputs. That is one area where we want to step in, to put Switzerland on their radar.
How would it contribute towards the network's overall goal of #ConnectingTomorrow?
As Japan strives to boost its international profile, Switzerland is one of the like-minded partners with whom they wish to collaborate. This drive from the Japanese side will add momentum to the Swissnex mission of #ConnectingTomorrow.
Moreover, it is great to have colleagues around the world to discuss how to create the biggest impact. Sometimes our projects travel between countries and we also exchange knowledge, ideas and talents internally. It is a big pleasure to see connections we initiated flourish with other partners. We are also proud to be part of network-wide projects, like the Swissnex Project Quantum.
Lastly, how do you want your current and potential Swiss partners to be part of your journey / vision?
What we prioritize is the spirit of “bottom-up” – this is why we cherish our contacts with Swiss counterparts. We want to continue proactively reaching out to make suggestions, to highlight one aspect or another based on different opportunities, like new funding, anniversaries or large-scale international events in Japan. But our ultimate goal is always to curate the best experience for our stakeholders, and to do so, we must know your needs. It is about you and you have to help us. It’s more work on your side as well, but we believe it brings the most fruitful outcomes. Our team is very motivated to work with you!
Connect with
Head of the Science and Technology Office Tokyo at Embassy of Switzerland in Japan