Lieutenant governors’ group adds Tsutsui to panel

Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui has been chosen by the National Lieutenant Governors Association to serve as a member of its International Committee, his office announced last week. The committee provides direction on opportunities for states’ lieutenant governors to become globally engaged.

In a news release sent out by Tsutsui’s office, Julia Hurts, director of the association, said the appointment recognizes Tsutsui as a "point of contact and recognized expert" for the nation’s lieutenant governors.

"Because Hawaii serves as a gateway between Asia and the Pacific, being appointed to this committee is a natural fit," Tsutsui said.

Earlier this year, Tsutsui led a trade mission to the Philippines with Philippines Consul General of Hono­lulu Julius Torres that strengthened ties and encouraged business relations between Hawaii and the Philippines, his office said.

"I’ll be able to share my knowledge on how Hawaii continues to work on attracting the various visitor markets and business industries to fuel our economy," Tsutsui added.

The NLGA is a professional association that provides research and exchange opportunities to lieutenant governors in all 50 states and U.S. territories.