Two Richmond councillors head to Japan to invite vessel

Richmond News

Couns. Harold Steves and Bill McNulty as well as city staff will travel to Japan for a face-to-face meeting to invite the Kaiwo Maru tall ship to attend a 2023 maritime festival in Richmond.

The trip, estimated to cost $40,000, was approved by council, despite some councillors arguing that it’s unnecessary given 21st century communications technology. …

In their report to council, staff pointed out that the Japanese appreciate in-person meetings.

“The benefit of personal contact can’t be under-estimated,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie.

The year 2023, when the city hopes the Kaiwo Maru will come to Steveston, is the 50th anniversary of Richmond’s sister-city friendship with Wakayama, Japan. …

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