The EUSI is a Japanese centre promoting excellence in academic, education, research, and outreach activities related to the EU. It is managed by a Consortium comprised of three Tokyo universities: Hitotsubashi University, Tsuda College, and, a new participant, Keio University, one of the most highly regarded EU studies centres in Japan. This Consortium succeeds and develops the heritage and assets of the EUIJ Tokyo Consortium (Hitotsubashi University, Tsuda College, International Christian University and Tokyo University of Foreign Studies), a body which was financially supported by the EU between 2004-2008, and is still in operation today.

The Opening Ceremony and Reception of the EU Studies Institute in Tokyo (EUSI), followed by an International Symposium, were held at Mita Campus, Keio University on Friday, the 22nd of May.

At the Ceremony, Ambassador Hugh Richardson, the Head of the Delegation of the European Commission to Japan, and Mr. Yasutaka Tokunaga, the Director General of the Ministry of Education, culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) gave their speeches to mark and encourage the launching of the EUSI. At the International Symposium, H.E. Mr. Kazuo Asakai, a former Japanese Ambassador to the European Union and Prof. Emil J. Kirchner, Jean Monnet Chair ad personam, Department of Government of University of Essex, gave the Keynote lectures.

At the welcome reception, Mr. Stefan Alois Huber, Minister-Counsellor of the Delegation, gave his remarks and Mr. Gren S. Fukushima, President & CEO gave a speech and presented a toast. Approximately 200 guests, from Government, Business, and Academic fields attended the launch.