Prime Minister Naoto Kan received a courtesy call from the representatives of the youths participating in the 37th Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Program (SSEAYP).

The SSEAYP was inaugurated in 1974 based on a joint statement between Japan and the member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This year marks the 37th voyage.

After shaking hands with each of the representatives of the youths participating in the SSEAYP and giving words of encouragement to them, the Prime Minister gave an address, in which he said, "I strongly hope that, taking advantage of this opportunity, you act as a bridge between ASEAN and Japan and between the countries of ASEAN. In the future, I expect this meaningful experience will help you exert leadership as you engage in activities involving multiple countries -- not just the countries of Asia or ASEAN and Japan, but all the countries of the world."