Top �� What's up around the Prime Minister �� November, 2003

Prime Minister Meets with Mr. William J. Clinton, the Former President of the United States Tuesday, November 18, 2003 Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi held talks at the Prime Minister's Official Residence with Mr. William J. Clinton, the former President of the United States. At the meeting, former President Clinton requested the Government of Japan for its cooperation toward the assistance campaign for HIV/AIDS medical treatment, which he organizes. Prime Minister Koizumi and former President Clinton also exchanged opinions on issues of Iraq, North Korea and the economic reform. Regarding the issue of Iraq, Prime Minister Koizumi expressed his respect toward the United States for its efforts to improve the security situation and the reconstruction of Iraq under stringent conditions. Former President Clinton expressed his gratitude for the assistance and cooperation of the Government of Japan in this regard. Regarding the issue of North Korea, former President Clinton expressed his respect for Japan playing a major role in the six-party talks process. He also emphasized the importance of keeping hope and working for a diplomatic solution regarding this issue. Prime Minister Koizumi said that while Japan would make efforts in solving the nuclear and other security issues through consultations, Japan regards the abduction issue as an equally important issue. Furthermore, regarding the Japanese economy, former President Clinton expressed his support for the Koizumi reform. In response to this, Prime Minister Koizumi said that it is his responsibility to nurture the buds of reform.