Top �� What's up around the Prime Minister �� February, 2002

Japan-U.S. Summit Meeting Monday, February 18, 2002 Click photographs to enlarge After observing yabusame, a performance of traditional archers on horseback, at the Meiji Shrine with President George Walker Bush of the United States of America, who had arrived in Japan the previous day, Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi attended the Japan-U.S. Summit Meeting held at the Iikura House of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Minato-ku, Tokyo. During the Summit Meeting, the leaders reaffirmed the importance of Japan-U.S. relations and had a broad-ranging exchange of views on matters, including the issue of Afghanistan, issues related to East Asia, including North Korea, economic issues such as the disposal of non-performing loans, measures against deflation and measures to prevent the financial unrest, as well as global issues. Prime Minister Koizumi clearly stated his intent to continue to advance the structural reforms that have been promoted by the Koizumi Cabinet. In response, President Bush offered strong words of support and encouragement. Furthermore, the President expressed his gratitude for the contributions made by Japan to assist Afghanistan. In the afternoon, a Joint Press Conference was held by both leaders at the Prime Minister's Official Residence, where the results of the Summit Meeting were announced. In the evening, a welcoming reception hosted by the Prime Minister was held at the Prime Minister's Official Residence.