Prime Minister Meets with the President of the European Commission Friday, April 26, 2002 Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi met with President of the European Commission Romano Prodi at the Prime Minister's Official Residence. In his opening remarks, Prime Minister Koizumi mentioned that this was the "last meeting with a visiting dignitary" to take place at the current Prime Minister's Official Residence. In response, President Prodi stated, "I am truly happy to be able to have discussions with you on this special day." During their meeting, the leaders agreed to further enhance cooperation between Japan and the European Union in responding to international issues such as the Middle East peace process and the environment. After their meeting, Prime Minister Koizumi and President Prodi attended the final dinner to be held in the Grand Hall of the current Prime Minister's Official Residence.