Hunton Andrews Kurth Partner J.R. Smith Receives Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendation

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP partner J.R. Smith was honored with the Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendation for his efforts to promote mutual understanding between the United States and Japan.

Smith received the award during a ceremony at the Washington residence of the Japanese Ambassador to the United States Koji Tomita. The Foreign Minister’s Commendations recognize individuals and organizations working internationally to promote friendship between Japan and other nations. This year, 177 individuals received the Commendations, and Smith was among 21 US-based recipients.

Smith is a longtime member and current chair of the board of directors of the Japan-Virginia Society, a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to developing international cooperation, cultural understanding, and trade and investment between the citizens and businesses of Japan and Virginia.

Smith opened the firm’s Tokyo office in 2011 and served as its first managing partner. With a long history of living and working in Japan and throughout Asia for more than 20 years, he has deep experience with transactional and litigation matters affecting interests in Asia.