[Provisional Translation]

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe hosted a summit meeting and other events with H.E. Mr. Matteo Renzi, Prime Minister of the Italian Republic , at the Prime Minister's Office.
First, the two leaders attended a ceremony by the guard of honor and then held a summit meeting. Following this, the two leaders held a joint press announcement.

Afterwards, the Prime Minister hosted a banquet at the Prime Minister's Official Residence and said in his address,

“Buona sera. I would like to once again welcome Matteo and his wife to Japan. I am very pleased to hold this grand banquet here at my official residence in order to welcome such dear friends. We have invited here tonight a great number of wonderful guests active in a wide range of fields in both Japan and Italy, including politics, the economy, the arts, and fashion. Everyone here sincerely loves Italy. We are all great fans of Italy.

Japan and Italy have many points in common.

First of all, we are both narrow and long countries with beautiful natural landscapes. The food cultures of both of our countries, which make use of ingredients cultivated in those bountiful landscapes, are something about which we are both proud of before the rest of the world. Both food cultures have been listed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritages. It just so happens that EXPO 2015 Milano  is now being held, which has the theme of food. My wife, Akie, left me behind while I was answering questions in the Diet and attended Japan Day  by herself. She told me that it was a great success. There are countless delicious Italian restaurants in Japan, and they are always very busy. I hope that this visit by Matteo and his wife to Japan will be an opportunity for them to enjoy Japanese cuisine, and that they will spread the excellence of our cuisine throughout Italy.

Next, I would like to talk about our rich cultures and traditions born out of our long histories. With its ancient roman ruins, the renaissance culture which flourished in Florence, the hometown of Matteo and his wife, and its music, represented by opera, Italy is the home of Europe’s spiritual culture. The people of Japan strongly admire that culture. Interest in Japanese culture is rising around the world as well, represented by Cool Japan . I believe that in Kyoto, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary as the sister city of Florence, Matteo and his wife will be able to experience the traditional culture of Japan for themselves.

And then there are our mutual commitments to the spirit of craftsmanship and manufacturing. The Italians’ commitment to manufacturing has produced many products that shine with the techniques of craftsmen, including the products of Ferrari and Ferragamo. However, Japan will also not be outdone in our commitment to superior manufacturing. I hope that people can feel that for themselves through products such as our robots, cars, and the Japanese bicycles that Matteo himself uses habitually.

Next year marks the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Italy. We are preparing for a number of events, including an exhibit of Japanese Buddhist Art. I hope that this occasion will dramatically enhance exchanges in every field, including politics, the economy, culture, and sports.

This time, Matteo is joined not only by his beautiful wife, but also his wonderful 9-year-old daughter. I have heard that his daughter bought a pink kimono. I am happy to hear of a member of the next generation beginning to become familiar with Japanese culture. I hope for many exchanges among the younger generations in the future. I want to work together with Matteo and everyone in attendance here today to make the 150th anniversary a great success.
I would like to make a toast to the future of our two countries. Salute. Cheers.”