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Prime Minister's News Update
Thursday, August 3, 2000 |
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Prime Minister's News Update
Thursday, August 3, 2000 |
At the closing of the "Parliament of Children in 2000", convened on August 2 and 3 under the auspices of the House of Councillors, Prime Minister Yoshiro Mori delivered a message to the 252 elementary and middle school children selected nationwide to serve as "child parliamentarians." After discussing various issues in separate groups on the first day, the "child parliamentarians" incorporated their conclusions in the Parliament of Children in 2000 Declaration, adopted in a plenary session on the second day.
Prime Minister Mori responded with the following message: "I found your declaration most promising. The twenty-first century will truly be your century. Each and every one of you needs to work hard to build the new age. I hope that you will exert yourselves to make the country of Japan, blessed with four seasons of great natural beauty and a distinctive culture, a bright and shining nation. As Prime Minister I am working to create a beautiful Japan that wins the trust of other countries as a nation of peace and fulfills the core role of contributing to the world's development in terms of economy, education, and science and technology. I want to make a Japan in which everyone can enjoy lifelong fulfillment and in which everyone can take pride. I will continue to do my best to make it possible to hand the nation over to you with confidence when you grow up. You have gained valuable experience through this Parliament of Children. I hope you will make good use of it as you spread your wings in pursuit of your own dreams and goals."
