(On the LDP Presidential Election)

I listened to the speeches of the four candidates earlier today. I believe that they delivered their respective speeches with a sense of determination and responsibility commensurate with the leader of this country. As I have mentioned before, I have been giving top priority to the response to the coronavirus pandemic for the past year. In this context, we have made progress in vaccination, which I believe is the most effective measure to contain the disease, with the number of doses administered reaching 150 million. In terms of vaccination rates, we have surpassed the United States. I am also pleased to announce that the number of new infected cases is on the decline. Amid the global battle for vaccines, we have secured vaccines for Japan, while enabling dentists and paramedics to conduct vaccinations by boldly promoting deregulation to deal with the shortage of medical professionals responsible for the task. This will make it possible for us to complete the vaccination of all citizens wishing to be vaccinated as early as October or November. It was Minister Kono who formulated all the necessary schemes in my administration. I believe that he has achieved a great deal amid the national crisis. Continuity is what I believe is extremely important in responding to the coronavirus pandemic. From such viewpoints, I support Mr. Kono in the presidential election. I also hope that active discussions will take place among the candidates. Thank you.