Prime Minister Shinzo Abe received a courtesy call from youth representatives participating in the Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Program (SSEAYP).

The Prime Minister said in his address,

“I sincerely welcome all the representatives of the countries participating in the 41st Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Program (SSEAYP) to Japan.

Last year, as Prime Minister, I visited all 10 ASEAN member countries. In doing so, I enjoyed warm hospitality in the places I visited, along with gaining a genuine sense that the ASEAN countries and Japan share universal values such as democracy and the rule of law.

Additionally, in December last year the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit Meeting was held here in Tokyo to commemorate the milestone of 40 years of friendship and cooperation between Japan and ASEAN. I held open discussions with the leaders of each country, and we affirmed that cooperation between ASEAN and Japan will be further strengthened.

Tomorrow, you will all depart on a ship that links Asia with Japan. On this voyage, you will meet fellow passengers with different histories, cultures, religious beliefs and values. Along with learning and talking together, and acknowledging the magnificence of those partner countries, I want you to be proud of the countries where you were born, and forge bonds with your fellow passengers.

Thus far, a total of over 10,000 youths have participated in the previous 40 SSEAYPs. It is my hope that you also make the most of this precious opportunity, and cherish for many years the friendships forged on the Ship for Youth, along with becoming tremendously active in your own countries, communities and the world as human resources contributing to the future of Asia.”