Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held the 11th meeting of the Council on National Strategic Special Zones at the Prime Minister's Office.

During the meeting, debate took place on certifying the special zone plan, additions to matters for regulatory reform, and the designation of Regional Vitalization Special Zones.

Based on the discussion, the Prime Minister said in his address,

“Discussion in the regular sessions of the Diet has begun. I have positioned this Diet as one that carries out reforms. I will continue to submit bills to this Diet that tackle the challenge of reforms in areas with vested interests, such as agriculture, medicine, employment and energy.

As one aspect of this, I intend to submit an even more powerful National Strategic Special Zone bill than that which was regrettably not adopted in the previous Diet, and I hope that it will be passed.

In regard to the matters for reform that were proposed today, in particular relating to industries that contribute to regional vitalization, such as agriculture, forestry and fisheries, and tourism, I would like the relevant ministers to review the measures toward achieving their realization.

In addition, we will realize the “Regional Vitalization Special Zones.”

Following on from the Agricultural Special Zone in Yabu City, I would also like to designate other highly motivated and inspired local bodies as Regional Vitalization Special Zones by March.

The entire government will provide comprehensive back-up. I would like to request that Minister Ishiba and private-sector experts continue to actively consider these matters. Thank you very much.”