[Provisional Translation]

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe conducted an award presentation ceremony for Mr. John A. Boehner, former Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, at the Prime Minister’s Office.

The Prime Minister said in his address,

“I would like to express my heartfelt respect for Mr. Boehner, a statesman who loves his country above all others, for the leadership he showed as the former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and for his contributions for many years as a member of the House of Representatives.

Mr. Boehner extended great efforts for the promotion of Japan-U.S. relations, and in turn achieved substantial results for the peace and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region. In particular, I believe that special mention is deserved for the cooperation of Mr. Boehner, who truly understands the significance of the Japan-U.S. Alliance, which helped realize my address at a joint meeting of the U.S. Congress, as the first Prime Minister from Japan to ever do so, during my 2015 visit to the United States.

On this occasion, His Majesty the Emperor has awarded the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun to Mr. Boehner for his long-term achievements in strengthening the relationship between Japan and the United States and contributing to the enhancement of our bilateral friendship.

I am greatly honored and very pleased to present this award to Mr. Boehner today. I would like to express my heartfelt congratulations.”