iProvisional Translationj Statement by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi on the Occasion of the Cabinet Reshuffle September 30, 2002

Today I reshuffled my Cabinet after thoroughly considering what should be the structure in order to advance and accelerate structural reform even more firmly. Since it was launched in April 2001, the Koizumi Cabinet has been united in tackling structural reform. We have been able to take firm strides forward in areas such as reform of postal businesses, reform of the four highway-related public corporations and reform of the medical care system. Based on these experiences and achievements, I am resolved to launch my policy of "no growth without reform" onto a firm orbit along with clear goals and policies under a new Cabinet structure. The top priority issue at this point in time is the rebirth of the Japanese economy. In order to activate our economy, I will strengthen measures to accelerate the pace of structural reform over the coming six months. At the same time, we will remove the uncertainty that permeates the Japanese economy and strive to overcome deflation, concluding the disposal of nonperforming loans in FY2004. Furthermore, I will continue to seek a fundamental reduction of the bloated public sector and realize an economy and society centering on a vital private sector and unique regional communities through such measures as advancing reform of the highway-related public corporations and establishing the Postal Public Corporation as the first step toward privatization of the postal businesses. On the diplomatic front, I will resume normalization talks based on the recently signed Japan-DPRK Pyongyang Declaration. By eliminating destabilizing factors in the region, I will strive to ensure the security of our nation and establish the peace and stability of the Northeast Asian region. In particular, in terms of the issue of the abduction of Japanese nationals, I am resolved to do my utmost to clarify the facts and deal with other matters, fully understanding the feelings of the families. Moreover, regarding issues such as terrorism and weapons of mass destruction, we must be proactive in tackling these issues in solidarity with the international community. Never before has it been as important as it is now for us to keep a spirit of perseverance through the difficulties of the present in order to build a better tomorrow. In view of this situation, I hereby renew my resolve to stand at the fore in tackling the challenges both at home and abroad and advance various reforms, fully extracting the great potential of our nation. In this, from my heart I ask for the understanding and cooperation of the people.