Paul Wylleman is known worldwide for his expertise regarding the supervision of athletes and coaches. The Japanese Ministery wanted to hear him out about the scientific state of affairs in this field. The ministers were also interested in the internationally highly reputed policy of VUB towards top sports students, in which these can simultaneously invest in a sports career and a future in academics - the so-called ‘dual career’. The parties also looked into the creation of joint research projects between VUB, Juntendo University and the Japanese Sports Council.