Wednesday, August 6, 2003

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Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi visited firms in Higashi Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture to observe the condition of small and medium-sized enterprises which play an active role in the world's most advanced technology amid the ongoing economic slump. The first stop on the tour was a visual apparatus and parts manufacturer, where Prime Minister Koizumi listened to an explanation of how the firm utilizes nanotechnology. At the next company, a lens manufacturer specializing mainly in sports eyewear, Prime Minister Koizumi tried on a pair of industrial special sunglasses that prevent the wearer from seeing laser beams. The Prime Minister also visited the Shiba Ryotaro Memorial Museum in Higashi Osaka City. Prime Minister Koizumi then addressed the inaugural meeting of the Kansai Thriving Culture Zone Promotion Council, which aims to strongly promote Japanese culture from the Kansai region. Prime Minister Koizumi said, "Before coming here today, I went to two firms in Higashi Osaka City. They produce goggles with anti-fog features and fascinate skiers around the world. Many young engineers are taking active role in research in nanotechnology and producing a lot of products from which we can take advantage. They are confident in themselves that they have technology well competitive with large companies, despite the difficult condition. I was really encouraged to see them eager to further advance their skills and technology." In the evening, Prime Minister Koizumi attended the "Town Meeting in Osaka," held during the "Town Meeting Week," a series of town meetings held over seven days from August 4 (Mon) to 10 (Sun) in which all cabinet ministers are taking part.