"Dear Mark, Katie, and Chris
Just a quick note to thank you all for the wonderful evening. It was not only a very educational occasion where both the delegation and I learnt a lot but also a fun night. As promised, please find attached a photo of the dinner. Probably the most important massages the delegation received on the night were:
Maori have unique and special knowledge and skills in the area of traditional medicine and other uses of endemic materials.
When collaborating with NZ researchers, it is vital for Japanese scientists/companies to ensure that they (NZ scientists) are linked to local Iwis concerned (i.e., they have proper consultation process with the Iwis). If not, Japanese scientists/companies should contact the right Maori group to establish such connections. Groups like your company are willing to help them to identify who the right Maori groups/individuals are.
As in Japanese society, Maori community values trust based on personal-relationships. To build trust, it is advisable for Japanese scientists/companies to seek face-to-face meetings, wherever possible.
Once agreement/consensus is reached between the proper Maori groups and Japanese scientists/companies, the former will defend the agreement against any criticisms arisen within the Maori community.
Again, many thanks for sharing your insights and knowledge with the delegation. I hope that we will see each other again before long.
Naku noa, na
Seishi Gomibuchi
NZ/Japan Science & Technology Coordinator, Ministry of Research, Science & Technology"
"Hi Mark,
Dr Sumida has been in touch with MoRST to say thanks and also… 'The dinner with Maori leaders was a great experience for us. We enjoyed the conversation with them.'
Amanda Tomlinson
Senior Adviser - International Linkages, Ministry of Research, Science & Technology"
Labels: consultation, environment, indigenous, Japan, maori, native, native science, policy, research, science, sustainability, whenua
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