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Prime Minister Visits the Center for Child and Youth in Suginami Ward, Tokyo


Monday, February 12, 2007
Photograph of Prime Minister observing a program for parents and young children Photograph of Prime Minister challenging himself to a free climb Photograph of Prime Minister observing a dance session
Photograph of Prime Minister playing basketball Photograph of Prime Minister receiving a gift of chocolate Photograph of Prime Minister exchanging opinions with organizing committee members


Click photographs to enlarge


Prime Minister Shinzo Abe visited the Center for Child and Youth run by Suginami Ward in Tokyo.

Dubbed "Yu Suginami," a name selected from entries submitted by the public, the Center provides local residents with a base for various activities, including a range of courses and lectures. Junior and senior high school students can enjoy sports and organize their own activities, while parents can participate in child-rearing support programs.

Observing a program for parents and young children, Prime Minister Abe listened in person to opinions and requests raised by participating parents on topics spanning from an increase in nursery schools to securing safe playgrounds and the establishment of an environment in which parents can have second and third children without anxiety.

Afterwards, Prime Minister observed a free-climbing lesson and a dance session in the gymnasium, and joined games of ping-pong and basketball. He then received chocolate and other gifts from a group that was making Valentine chocolate and cakes.

During an exchange of opinions with members of a junior and senior high school students' organizing committee, Prime Minister Abe said, "Ping-pong, basketball and free-climbing -- I think these are excellent opportunities for you to find a place you can enjoy, interact with local people and make more pals."

At the end of the visit, Prime Minister Abe replied to an interview, saying, "Watching everyone enjoying themselves so much in their activities, I thought that this type of meeting place is truly precious. We are already creating such meeting places nationwide, but I would like to further expand our promotion efforts around the country."