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On August 3, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held the first meeting on a Long-Term Strategy under the Paris Agreement as Growth Strategy at the Prime Minister's Office.
 
The Prime Minister said in his opening address,
 
“The situation surrounding the environment and the economy has completely changed over these past few years. Flows of global funds are changing greatly, as seen in the fact that ESG (environment, social, and governance) investments have grown by more than 1 quadrillion yen over five years, and the increase in green bond issuance by 50 times.
 
Measures against global warming are no longer a cost for companies. They are a source of competitiveness. Companies that actively fight against environmental issues attract funds from all around the world, enabling them to prepare for the next phase of their growth and take further measures. This change, which can truly be called a virtuous cycle between the environment and growth, has spread throughout the world at an amazing pace in the past five years or so.
 
We will promote technological innovations led by businesses by proactively encouraging this virtuous cycle. Up until now, measures against global warming have consisted of obligatory measures in response to the Government's initiatives. We now need a massive paradigm shift in response to the changes of this era. Japan needs to have a mindset to materialize strong growth of our country by making full use of the strengths of Japanese companies and generating innovation, rather than simply extending existing businesses.
 
From such a perspective, I would like to receive proposals on a new policy direction not limited by past precedent towards the establishment of the long-term strategy under the Paris Agreement. Today, we have gathered those who can contribute to conversations with a broader perspective that transcends the boundaries of previous arguments.
 
I hope that all of you will present a new vision that drives international trends forward while taking a grand panoramic perspective on financial trends, the reality of business, and global shifts in particular.
 
Next year, Japan will chair the G20. The Government of Japan will exercise firm leadership so that the entire international community can keep pace with each other with responses against climate change issue. I request that all of you have a candid, active discussion.”