Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held the 18th meeting of the Council on Economic and Fiscal Policy at the Prime Minister's Office.

During the meeting, discussions were held on the "mid-term fiscal plan" and "FY2014 guidelines for budget requests."

Based on the discussions, the Prime Minister said,

"Today, we were able to compile the 'mid-term fiscal plan' and make further considerations regarding the 'FY2014 guidelines for budget requests.' I would like to express my gratitude to Minister Amari, Minister Aso, and Council members.
Under the 'mid-term fiscal plan,' the future policy direction for achieving the fiscal soundness targets while aiming for the realization of a positive cycle of economic revitalization and fiscal soundness has been indicated.
In order to ensure that we overcome deflation, as well as secure the reassurance of the people and confidence in the Government, we will continue our Government-wide efforts to compile a focused budget based on the 'mid-term fiscal plan' and 'FY2014 guidelines for budget requests.'
I ask for your continued cooperation in these efforts."