TOP > What's up around the Prime Minister > April, 2008

Prime Minister Hosts Cherry Blossom Viewing Party Saturday, April 12, 2008 JAPANESE

Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda hosted the annual cherry blossom viewing party at Shinjuku Gyoen in Tokyo. About 10,000 guests attended, including those representing various circles as well as cultural and sporting figures, and enjoyed late-blooming "double cherry" blossoms under a clear sky. To the guest, the Prime Minister said, "We must ensure that the future of Japan is as fine as today's weather. I am doing my best to solidify the foundation for that future. Although there are many issues to overcome, I want very much to clear them up, and make the entire country flourish, just like these cherry blossoms. I think my particular task is to straighten up politics and the administration. I do not consider that my getting old has no purpose. I have gained many experiences and I consider my age fit to handle the coming tasks. By doing my best, I would like to encourage the people to have a brighter outlook on the future."