The 2026 Tokyo Plenary Meeting of the Trilateral Commission was successfully held
Congrès Inc. planned and operated the international conference where global top leaders gathered under the theme "Era of Global Stewardship"
From May 14 to May 16, 2026, the 2026 Tokyo Plenary Meeting of the Trilateral Commission was held at The Okura Tokyo, and Congrès Inc. was in charge of the planning and operation of this conference.
Under the theme "Era of Global Stewardship," over 300 leaders from political, business, and academic circles from North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific gathered for passionate discussions.
About the Trilateral Commission
The Trilateral Commission is an international private non-profit policy dialogue group established in 1973.
It brings together opinion leaders from North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific to address a wide range of global challenges, including geopolitics, the international economy, finance, security, advanced technology, energy, and climate change.
Building on networks of trust that transcend sectors and national borders, the Commission convenes annual global plenary meetings and regional meetings to facilitate ongoing dialogue on changes in the international environment and developments within each region. Through these exchanges, the Commission seeks to deepen mutual understanding and strengthen cooperation among the three regions.
Theme: Era of Global Stewardship
At this plenary, held in Tokyo for the first time in 14 years, the theme was "Era of Global Stewardship."
Guided by this thema, global key figures engaged in free and heated exchanges of views on how to fulfill this responsibility amidst unprecedentedly rapid changes brought by AI and intensifying geopolitical tensions.
Congratulatory Address: Video Message from Prime Minister of Japan Sanae Takaichi
A video message from Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi was presented at the plenary.
Prime Minister Takaichi expressed her congratulations on hosting the 2026 Tokyo Plenary Meeting of the Trilateral Commission and emphasized the significance of holding this conference, where global leaders gather for dialogue amidst a turbulent international community, and conveyed her expectations that vigorous discussions from diverse perspectives would contribute to a sustainable and stable international order.
Highlights: Fierce Debates on AI and Security, High Expectations for Technology, and a Message from the Atomic-Bombed City
During the three-day conference, the defining question was how humanity will govern power in an age of accelerating technological change, making AI and security a major agenda.
Building on the Opening Speech, leaders exchanged views and affirmed the crucial principle that "AI must remain under human will, human judgment, and human responsibility".
In discussions including the session titled "Geoeconomics of the AI Supply Chain," Japan's precision technologies--such as various semiconductors and key manufacturing equipment--also drew attention.
Furthermore, on the third day, Terumi Tanaka, Co-Chairperson of Nihon Hidankyo (2024 Nobel Peace Prize laureate), delivered a special address. Along with a powerful message that "nuclear weapons must never be used again," he made a passionate appeal to build norms and channels of restraint for AI before a catastrophe occurs, just as the world did for nuclear weapons after a catastrophe.
Congrès Inc. identifies "supporting efforts to solve issues in society through creating fora for meetings & events" as one of its core sustainability materialities.
It was a deeply meaningful experience for us to support the creation of a secure environment where global top leaders could engage in free and vigorous dialogue on shaping our common future.
We will continue to contribute to solving global issues and building a better future by creating "fora" that support cross-border dialogue.
A Word from a Plannning and Operations Lead of Congrès Inc.
Preparations for this Tokyo Plenary began at the end of January this year, and we worked closely with the organizers over a limited period of about four and a half months.
As it was my first time directing venue operations on this scale, I approached the project with a great deal of pressure and strong enthusiasm. Although there were challenging moments such as program changes continued right up until the day of the event, we made every effort to adapt and respond flexibly to the situation.
In these times of increasing uncertainty, I believe that global platforms for discussion, where world top leaders gather for direct dialogue, hold greater significance than ever before.
I am incredibly pleased and proud, both personally and on behalf of Congrès, to have been able to assist in the successful hosting of this plenary. Drawing on this invaluable experience, I will continue to dedicate myself to the planning and operation of all kinds of international conferences in the future.
Message from the Organiser
Hifumi Tajima (Ms)
Deputy Director, Asia Pacific Group
Executive Director, Japan Group
The Trilateral Commission
The Tokyo Plenary Meeting brought together members and distinguished guests from around the world for lively and substantive discussions on a wide range of issues, including international affairs, the global economy, AI, and emerging technologies. With numerous sessions and related events taking place within a limited timeframe, careful coordination, flexibility, and close attention to the needs of participants were essential to the successful organization of the meeting.
Throughout the entire process, from the early stages of preparation to the on-site management of the meeting, the Congrès team responded to our various requests with great professionalism, flexibility, and care. Their thoughtful attention to detail was particularly valuable in ensuring that all participants, including those joining us from overseas, could take part in the meeting smoothly and comfortably.
Organizing an international conference of this scale requires extensive behind-the-scenes coordination and the ability to respond quickly and effectively to changing circumstances. The successful completion of the Tokyo Plenary Meeting was made possible in no small part by the Congrès team's extensive experience, expertise, and dedicated support throughout the event. We would like to express our sincere appreciation to everyone at Congrès for their invaluable contribution.