Prime Minister Kishida’s Talks with Japanese Business Representatives (Summary)

On April 12, commencing at 5:10 p.m. (local time; 6:10 a.m. on April 13 Japan Time) for approximately 50 minutes, Mr. KISHIDA Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan, who is visiting the State of North Carolina, the United States of America, held talks with Japanese business representatives operating in North Carolina. The overview is as follows.

1. At the outset, Prime Minister Kishida expressed his respect for the efforts by Japanese companies that have developed operations in North Carolina, home to the "Research Triangle Park"which is one of the largest technology parks in the U.S., and that have built a relationship of trust serving as the foundation of postive bilateral relations. Prime Minister Kishida also stated that the Government of Japan will conntinue to strongly support efforts by Japanese companies with an aim to strengthening Japan's growth potential.

2. During the talks, the Japanese business representatives provided an overview of their business activities in North Carolina and had a candid discussion with Prime Minister Kishida,expressing various opinions and expectations including on the advantages of doing business in North Carolina and the regional differences within the State.