[Provisional Translation]

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held the 27th meeting of the Council on National Strategic Special Zones at the Prime Minister's Office.

During the meeting, debate took place on certifying the special zone plan, additional items for regulatory reform related to priority fields and issues, and other matters.

Based on the discussion, the Prime Minister said,

“A landmark project will be realized in Imabari City, which was designated a National Strategic Special Zone one year ago.

The three roadside stations along the Shimanami Kaido will be run comprehensively by the private sector. There, new services will be provided, including the provision of rest areas for bicyclists.

For the first time in 52 years, next year, a new school of veterinary medicine will be established. It will foster veterinarians who will develop new measures against infectious diseases and conduct leading-edge life science research. Through the school’s new curriculum and other initiatives, I expect that it will have a positive effect on universities and the entire education system as a whole. I want to express my respect once again to everyone working hard for this.

Today, we heard statements from Special Advisor to the Cabinet Sakaiya and Council member Hara on the acceptance of foreign nationals in consumer service sectors, such as fashion, the food and beverage industry, distribution, and Japanese inns.

Last week, while visiting countries such as the Philippines in Southeast Asia, I met young people who love cool Japan, and are passionately studying Japanese. I believe that these young people will indeed become bridges that link their home countries with Japan. I am confident that if they find work in Japan and directly communicate the charms of Japan to tourists from their countries, this would be of great value to both our country and their own, beyond just the economic value that it would produce. These young people love Japanese culture, are learning Japanese, and want to continue doing something related to Japan throughout their lifetime. I strongly felt that we must meet their expectations.

I want to make it possible to actively accept these highly motivated young people from Asia into Japan.

Many items for reform are included in the Bill for the Amendment of the National Strategic Special Zones Law to be submitted during this session of the Diet.”