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The Government of Japan has announced that it will confer the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star on Michael H. Moskow. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will bestow the decoration on Mr. Moskow on Thursday, May 23, 2019, during a ceremony at the Imperial Palace followed by an audience with Emperor Naruhito.

Mr. Moskow is Vice Chairman of the Chicago Council on Global Affairs and a Distinguished Fellow on the Global Economy.

“I am honored to be awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star, and privileged to have the opportunity to be in the presence of Prime Minister Abe, and Emperor Naruhito who so recently acceded to the Throne on May 1,“ said Mr. Moskow. “I appreciate the opportunities that I have had to work with Japan throughout my career, and I look forward to continuing to strengthen the bonds between our two countries.”

The announcement from the Government of Japan states that Mr. Moskow has “contributed to strengthening economic relations and promoting mutual understanding between Japan and the United States.”

Mr. Moskow served as Deputy United States Trade Representative with the rank of Ambassador from 1991 to 1993, at a time when there were significant trade frictions between Japan and the United States. He led extensive trade negotiations with Japan, working closely with his Japanese counterparts.

Mr. Moskow has continued his relationship with Japan, including serving as Chairman of the Japan America Society of Chicago since 2008.

From 1994-2007, Mr. Moskow served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. His career also includes other positions in the U.S. Government, as well as in the private sector and academia.

The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star is Japan’s second highest national award and was established by Emperor Meiji in 1875.

Mr. Moskow’s wife, Suzanne Kopp-Moskow, will accompany Mr. Moskow to the Imperial Palace.