The Brazilian government on Thursday awarded Nagano Gov. Yasuo Tanaka the National Order of the Southern Cross to thank him for supporting Brazilian nationals in his prefecture.
The award was presented to Tanaka at his office by Brazilian Ambassador Ivan Cannabrava.
"I believe this is an award given to all people in Nagano, including the Brazilians, who love the prefecture," Tanaka said.
Nagano is home to about 18,000 Brazilians -- nearly half of all foreigners in the prefecture.
The Brazilian government recognized Tanaka for such efforts as organizing local meetings with foreigners and providing educational assistance to their children.