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| Top What's up around the Prime Minister January, 2004 |
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General Policy Speech by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi to the 159th Session of the Diet
In his speech, Prime Minister Koizumi first stated his determination to continue to promote reforms with firm resolve by maintaining the policy that has been followed to date of "without structural reform there will be no rebirth or growth in Japan." Prime Minister Koizumi pointed out that Japanese economy is steadily recovering as seen in the economic growth rate that has been positive in real terms for 18 consecutive months, and that the results of structural reform are now coming to be seen. Prime Minister Koizumi also stated his determination that, in addition to utilizing the results of reforms implemented to date under the policy of "from public sector to private sector" and "from the state to the regions," he will materialize reforms this year that have been said to be difficult to achieve until now, including privatization of postal services and highway-related public corporations, the reform packages of three issues that promotes decentralization, and pension reform. Prime Minister Koizumi further expressed his determination to make this year one in which the rebirth of Japan will take a firm step forward. Furthermore, with regard to the issues of North Korea, Prime Minister Koizumi said he will continue to make utmost efforts towards a comprehensive solution, including the abduction issues and security issues encompassing nuclear and missile issues through the Six-Party talks. In closing his address, Prime Minister Koizumi said, "It is natural that a country should act for world peace and for those people and countries that are struggling by overcoming difficulties. That, surely, is the kind of attitude that will allow us to occupy "an honored place in an international society" as described in the Preamble to the Constitution of Japan," and asked for the understanding of the people of Japan concerning the international contribution by Japan, including reconstruction assistance to Iraq.
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| Link: | General Policy Speech by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi to the 159th Session of the Diet |