Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held the ninth meeting of the Administrative Reform Promotion Council at the Prime Minister's Office.

During the meeting, discussion took place on "the review of administrative programs" and "procurement improvements."

The Prime Minister said in his address,

"As we begin a new year and enter the second year of the Abe Cabinet, I would like to work together with you on administrative reforms, starting on a fresh note.
The review of administrative programs is an important initiative in which each ministry makes improvements to its program content autonomously. Thanks to your cooperation, we have been able to complete the first year's cycle. During the 'Autumn Review' held in November of last year, we received sound feedback regarding 55 ministry programs. I am pleased to say that this feedback has been steadily reflected in the FY2014 budget under the leadership of Deputy Prime Minister Aso.
With regard to the review of administrative programs, we will be identifying what challenges have been faced, and make steady efforts to ensure that this contributes to further improving the initiatives that will be launched from April of this year and thereafter. With regard to procurement improvements, based on the outcomes of the latest review, the Government as a whole will further put into practice the improvement plan, including the expansion of joint procurement. I would like to ask the Council members for their continued cooperation. Thank you very much."