Bridgestone’s Arakawa Honoured for Contribution to Belgium

On October 7, Shoshi Arakawa, chairman of the Board, CEO and president of Bridgestone Corporation, was presented with Commander of the Order of Leopold of the Kingdom of Belgium. Commenting on the significance of this occasion, Bridgestone notes that the Order of Leopold is the most prestigious order that can be bestowed upon an individual for his or her contribution to the development of Belgium. The ceremony was held at the official residence of Mr. Johan Maricou, Ambassador of H.M. the King of the Belgians to Japan, who presented the award.

“The decoration of Commander of the Order of Leopold that you bestow on me today, as I understand, is in recognition of Bridgestone’s contribution to the economic development of your country,” stated Arakawa at the ceremony.

Shoshi Arakawa was inaugurated as Chairman, CEO and President of Bridgestone Europe NV/SA (BSEU) in March 2001 and held that position for approximately three years. Bridgestone comments that the achievements of BSEU during his leadership period and his accomplishments as CEO and president of Bridgestone Corporation were significant in the evaluation of his contribution to the economic development of Belgium.