The Nikkei community gathers in Leon

The Governor of Guanajuato led the inauguration of the 17th National Nikkei Convention

Leon/Gto News

Governor of the People, Libia Dennise Garcia Munoz Ledo, inaugurated the XVII National Nikkei Convention (CONANI) 2026, the main meeting of the Nikkei community in Mexico, which for the first time in its history is held in the State of Guanajuato, consolidating Leon as a strategic meeting point between Mexico and Japan.

The event takes place from May 28 to the 31st with the motto “Connecting roots, strengthening ties”, and will bring together about 400 attendees from different states of Mexico and Nikkei communities from the United States.

“We are very proud to host the XVII National Nikkei Convention, CONANI, a gathering with the motto ‘Connecting Roots, Strengthening Bonds,’ which reminds us of the importance of identity, memory, but above all, the friendship that unites our peoples. Welcome to Guanajuato, everyone,” said the Governor.

Libia emphasized that for the first time in its history, this convention is being held in the State of Guanajuato. Today, Guanajuato and Leon become the meeting point for Mexico’s Nikkei community; “a community that has preserved its roots, honored its ancestors, and, at the same time, built a present full of opportunities.”

The Governor emphasized that a very special relationship exists among Guanajuato and Japan. “We share values. We share virtues and aspirations. Respect, discipline, perseverance, the value of one’s word, commitment to excellence, a sense of community, and the importance of family are principles that unite us.”

Libia Dennise commented that in Guanajuato, “we feel deeply proud of our Nikkei community. A community that has sown hope, friendship, progress, and development. Women and men who, with their talent, discipline, and love for this land, have left an indelible mark.”

The Governor said that the relationship between Guanajuato and Japan is strong, deep, and cherished. It is a relationship that has been built over time, with trust and a long-term vision. A clear example of this is the bond of friendship that unites Guanajuato with Hiroshima.

Furthermore, the relationship between Guanajuato and Japan is also an economic success story. Today, Japan is our main investment partner. 151 Japanese companies have placed their trust in Guanajuato, generating investments of more than $9.6 billion and nearly 49,000 jobs for our people, said Libia Dennise.

“Today we inaugurate this Convention with hearts full of hope. Hope to continue building bridges. Hope to continue strengthening the friendship between Mexico and Japan. Hope to continue walking together towards a shared future,” the Governor noted.

The event was attended by the Mayor of Leon; the Japanese Ambassador to Mexico, Kozo Honsei; and the Japanese Consul General in Leon, Takero Aoyama; also present was the President of Nikkei Bajio BJX and organizer of CONANI 2026, Enrique Kato Miranda, and other State and Municipal Officials.

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