[Provisional Translation]

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe jointly held the 12th meeting of the Reconstruction Promotion Council and the 36th meeting of the Nuclear Emergency Response Headquarters at the Prime Minister’s Office.

At today’s meeting, reports were given on “the current situation and issues in the four years of reconstruction” and “the policy for accelerating Fukushima's reconstruction from the nuclear disaster.”

Based on the discussions, the Prime Minister said,

“Tomorrow marks a full four years since the Great East Japan Earthquake. Particularly in the areas affected by the earthquake and the tsunami, the path to restoration is at last beginning to become more evident, such as through the rebuilding of residences, which is well underway. In the areas affected by the nuclear disaster, recovery is also progressing, and there are movements towards the return of residents. In both cases, we are entering a new stage.
As we enter the final year of the intensive reconstruction period, we must dispel concerns about the future of the affected areas. We must indicate the reconstruction support framework for FY 2016 and thereafter as quickly as possible, while also considering its relationship with the Plan for Achieving Fiscal Soundness.

I would like to describe three points in our basic way of thinking in regard to this framework.

First, we intend to make the latter part of the restoration period a five-year framework, so that affected areas can carry out operations with a clear perspective in mind. Second, in this new stage, we intend to link recovery to the “independence” of the affected areas, in order to have them aim to play a leading role in the revitalization and growth of Japan. And, third, we intend to continue to thoroughly implement the necessary support to stand in solidarity with those affected by the disaster.

Based on this thinking, I would like you to swiftly implement an overview of our initiatives up until now under the leadership of the Minister for Reconstruction. In addition, so that activities towards the budget request for the FY 2016 budget can be made in sufficient time, I intend to comprehensively formulate the future restoration support framework.

Regarding the recovery of the areas affected by the nuclear disaster, I would like to accelerate measures towards lifting the evacuation orders, starting with Naraha Town, enabling residents to return to their homes with a feeling of hope.

Under the leadership of the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Minister for Reconstruction, I would like you to consider ways to strengthen the framework so that it is linked to rebuilding operations and jobs, and realizes the independence of business operators in Fukushima.

Furthermore, in regard to measures for decommissioning the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station, and dealing with the contaminated water there, I intend to strengthen initiatives, with the national government standing at the fore, to the faith of those in the local regions.”