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Commemorative Ceremony for the 120th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Cabinet System Thursday, December 22, 2005 JAPANESE Click photographs to enlarge The Commemorative Ceremony for the 120th Anniversary of the Cabinet System was held at the Prime Minister's Official Residence. On December 22, 1885, the central governmental system underwent major reform and a Cabinet system composed of a prime minister and ministers was established. For over a century since its establishment, the Cabinet system has been playing a vital role in state affairs. In his address, Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi said, "I will make utmost efforts to realize a simple and efficient government as well as ensure economic vitalization and a reassuring and safe living environment for establishing a Japanese society that is full of confidence and pride. In addition, I will make all possible efforts so that Japan can actively contribute towards the realization of peace and prosperity in the world." Mr. Yohei Kono, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ms. Chikage Oogi, the President of the House of Councillors, and Mr. Akira Machida, the Chief of Justice of the Supreme Court, were in attendance and each also delivered congratulatory addresses. The Ceremony was attended by all ministers, chief cabinet secretaries, leaders of the ruling party, and three former prime ministers--Mr. Yasuhiro Nakasone, Mr. Toshiki Kaifu, and Mr. Yoshiro Mori. At the ensuing banquet, former Prime Minister Nakasone proposed a toast, saying, "I hope next year will be the starting line for major developments in Japan." View Video (Available only in Japanese) Real(Narrowband) / Real(Broadband) Windows Media(Narrowband) / Windows Media(Broadband)