Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Policy Speech by Prime Minister Taro Aso to the Hundred and Seventy-first Session of the Diet

Prime Minister Taro Aso delivered a policy speech during a plenary session of the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors in the hundred and seventy-first session of the Diet.

The main pillars of the policy speech were "vitality," "peace of mind," and "contributions to the world." It set out the government's policies in a structured manner, with a focus on the major challenges of today.

To begin with, Prime Minister Aso said, "The world is now on the verge of a new era. As this unfolds, Japan should contribute to the creation of a new order. Meanwhile, Japan itself must also successfully ride the changes in the times. We should aspire to 'a society of peace of mind and vitality.'"

Then, the Prime Minister explained about efforts for the creation of a vibrant society, namely, countermeasures for business activity, countermeasures for unemployment, management of public finances, and responses for economic growth. Speaking of the deterioration of the economy, Prime Minister Aso emphasized that "abnormal economic circumstances demand exceptional responses." The Prime Minister stressed that confidence in social security systems, including those for pensions, medical care and nursing services, is indispensable for peace of mind in people's daily lives. He also pointed out that active consideration will be given to education and the environment. As for Japan's contributions to the world, the Prime Minister expressed his determination to devote his utmost efforts to the creation of peace and stability, with the Japan-US alliance as the cornerstone of Japanese foreign policy, and by having partnerships with the other countries of Asia and the Pacific as well as international cooperation as the main pillars.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Aso said, "Japan, with its exceptional technologies and an appealing culture, among other fortes, is itself a brand, which people the world over admire. We should indeed have confidence and pride. The latent power and vitality of Japan will most certainly bring us to overcome this difficult situation. We will return Japan to a nation that is both positive and strong."

Related Link

• Policy Speech by Prime Minister Taro Aso to the Hundred and Seventy-first Session of the Diet (28 January 2009)