Mr. Allen Okamoto & Ms. Kathleen Kimura
Co Chairs
San Francisco - Osaka Sister City Association

Dear Mr. Okamoto & Ms. Kimura,

It was a great pleasure for us to be able to welcome you and the San Francisco delegation, for the 45th anniversary of our sister city relationship and in conjunction with NFL Osaka 2002 featuring the San Francisco 49ers. The diversity and enthusiasm of the sister city group impressed all of us and confirmed that people remain the greatest asset as well as the driving force of our long?standing relationship.

On behalf of the citizens of Osaka, I would like to express my gratitude for the Association's initiative in the exchange of ideas regarding the 50th anniversary. The affiliation established by Mayor George Christopher is not simply a sister city tie forged between two great cities, but one of historic significance for the Japan?USA bilateral friendship and goodwill. I look forward very much to your continued personal support and that of the Association for exchanges between our cities.

Please accept my sincerest wishes for your continued good health and
success.

Sincerely yours,