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On February 18, 2020, the Prime Minister received a courtesy call from representatives of youth participating in the “Ship for World Youth Program,” at the Prime Minister’s Office.
 
The Prime Minister said in his address,
 
“I would like to offer my heartfelt welcome to all of you who are visiting Japan to attend the Ship for World Youth Leaders Program.
 
Since assuming the office of Prime Minister, I have traveled to various countries and, both in Japan and overseas, have met with leaders of your countries. In the course of this fiscal year of Japan alone, I met with the leaders of New Zealand, Kenya and United Kingdom and, very recently, have met with the Crown Prince of Bahrain. Furthermore, I had the opportunity to meet with the Presidents of Brazil and Egypt on two occasions each and with the President of France three times.
 
I was told that you each play active roles in your respective governments, financial institutions, private companies or educational institutions. You are also expected to lead these institutions in the future. I hope that, through this opportunity, you will discuss what ideal leadership should be and learn a great deal about it with colleagues with different history, culture and values..
 
I am certain that the time you will spend with your colleagues and the bonds that you will form with them at sea, isolated from the outside world, will become an irreplaceable asset when you make a difference in your respective home countries or regions as a leader.
 
I have high hopes that you will draw on this voyage and enjoy even greater success in your endeavors, transcending national borders. This year, the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games are being held in Tokyo. If you have chance, please do visit Japan again and cheer the athletes representing your country at the Games.”