Liaison Meeting of the Government and Ruling Parties

On February 21, 2025, Prime Minister Ishiba attended a Liaison Meeting of the Government and Ruling Parties at the Prime Minister’s Office.

In his opening remarks Prime Minister Ishiba said:

“Let me start by extending my heartfelt appreciation to the members of the ruling parties for your support. Thank you very much.

It has been one month since we held this meeting last time. During that time, I visited the United States between February 6 and 8, as reported. I would like to express my sincere gratitude for various support that you have offered me.

We intend to give thorough explanations to the public regarding how we will combat rising prices, achieve wage increases that surpass them, and deal with issues of great interest, such as rice and gasoline, while maintaining close communication with members of the ruling parties.

When you entered the Prime Minister’s Office, MYAKU-MYAKU might have said something to you. There are not many days left – 49 or 50 days to go – we do not have much time left. Compared to the 1970 expo, where we had a lunar rock and various other exhibits to promote at that time, we may not have sufficiently conveyed the main appeal of this expo, as some people are still wondering what will actually be on display. Or it is rather difficult for elderly people – allow me to put myself aside – to purchase tickets; in some respects, it is like ‘They say you can easily buy one with a smartphone, but it is not that easy.’ We must make further improvements in this regard.

The Budget Committee of the House of Representatives resumes later at 1 p.m. I am sorry for a large burden you have been shouldering in regard to consultations with other parties and so forth, yet we would like to get through this by any means for the sake of Japan and the Japanese people with concerted efforts of the Government and ruling parties. Your feedback on what needs improvement would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.”