Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attended the first meeting of the Council for the Promotion of Social Security System Reform at the Prime Minister's Office.

During the meeting, a Chair was chosen, a Co-chair was nominated, and rules for the management of the meeting were decided upon. The members then exchanged views.
The Prime Minister said in his address,
"Amid the major changes occurring to the social security environment, including the continued decline in the birthrate and the aging of the population, we must securely hand down Japan's world-renowned social security system to future generations, and achieve a society that is full of vitality.
To this end, first of all the full amount of the tax revenue arising from the consumption tax increase in April this year will be allocated to social welfare, and, in addition to moving forward with eliminating childcare waiting lists, we will also enhance areas such as medical and healthcare services, and measures to address intractable illness.
At the same time, ceaseless reform is required in order to create a system with a balance between benefits and burdens.
In so doing, I believe it will also be important to set our sights on 2025, the year in which members of the so-called baby boomer generation will all be over 75, and create systems that allow all generations to support one another.
From this perspective, I ask that all members of this Council shape the ideal form of social security and hold frank discussions while emphasizing a cross-cutting view that takes into account all initiatives, including regional vitalization and facilitating women’s active role. Thank you."