Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda attended the 65th Meeting of the Nippon Keidanren Board of Directors held in Tokyo.

The Prime Minister said in his address, "This year was truly a year of upheaval. There were various major events both inside and outside Japan, including the Great East Japan Earthquake, the nuclear accident, the European debt crisis, and the recent death of Chairman Kim Jong-Il of the National Defense Commission of North Korea.
There are mounting tasks to be addressed by the Noda Cabinet. I believe it is my mission to resolve issues that must be dealt with, one by one.
Above all, our priorities are recovery and reconstruction from the earthquake, conclusion of the nuclear accident, and revival of the Japanese economy.
There are other things to do besides dealing with the earthquake and the issue of nuclear power.
I would like to respond to the issue of high-level economic partnerships, including the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), in full consideration of Japan's national interests. I would also like to come up with a solid consensus on the comprehensive reform of social security and taxation systems, without shying away, wavering, or procrastinating.
Before speaking about our dreams, my Cabinet must overcome major challenges that must be addressed, one by one. My administration is fully resolved to overcome these challenges, and I ask for your continued understanding and support."