• 

 
On December 25, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held a press conference at the Prime Minister's Office.
 
In regard to the six years since the inauguration, the Prime Minister said,
 
“Since six years ago when we retook control of the reins of government, we have been exerting utmost efforts day by day, with the intent to create a Japan abounding with hope, to fulfill the mandate given to us by the people. Those days have built up to create six years. This is something deeply moving.
 
While we experienced many disasters this year, it was also a major turning point as seen in the working-style reform for domestic affairs, and the Japan-Russia Summit Meeting for diplomacy. As we enter our 7th year in power next year, most significantly, there will be the succession of the Imperial throne. I would like next year to be one which paves the way for the future of Japan, and Japan to truly shine brilliantly.
 
No matter how many years pass, I will exert every effort with a sense of urgency for the nation and the people of Japan. Thank you very much.”
 
Furthermore, the Prime Minister also said,
 
“I do not consider it a secret and I would say it is the consequence of daily efforts. Basically, when the first Abe Cabinet was formed12 years ago, I over-exerted myself and our Cabinet ended after just one year. That setback and experience have been a valuable gain, looking back at the six years since the inauguration. Thank you very much.”