Rising young leaders from the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea gathered in Osaka for the second annual Young Trilateral Leaders (YTL) Summit from July 7 to 9, 2025. The event was sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and implemented by Temple University, Japan Campus. It focused on dialogue, cross-cultural exchange, and collaboration with government officials, industry leaders, and academics.
The summit hosted 50 delegates selected from nearly 800 applicants. The program aimed to develop leadership skills and strategic thinking among participants aged 18-35.
Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy Tokyo, Aaron Snipe emphasized: “We are united in our democratic values and our unwavering belief in giving people the tools to pursue prosperity and progress in peace."
This year's summit built on the inaugural event held in Busan last year. The Kansai region was chosen as a host location to celebrate Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai.
The opening day included remarks by Aaron Snipe at the Osaka International Convention Center and featured panels on trilateral security. A cultural outing took place in Kyoto.
Day two continued with discussions at NORIBA10 focusing on business across cultures and youth-led initiatives strengthening ties through programs like YSEALI and YPL.
On the final day, delegates visited Expo 2025 Osaka's USA Pavilion where senior representatives from all three national pavilions spoke. A pitch competition concluded the summit with projects addressing e-waste management, employment opportunities for alumni, and digital storytelling being highlighted.