Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda attended the "Reception to Express Respect to Ms. Sadako Ogata on her Contributions to Japan and the International Community" at the Iikura House and delivered an address.

The Prime Minister said in his address, "Dr. Ogata had been fighting against the threats facing people throughout the world including poverty and conflict. Especially, she was working at the forefront in tackling human rights issues, humanitarian support issues, and development. I would be grateful if Dr. Ogata continues to exert such contributions from now on with a broader perspective.
Dr. Ogata is currently playing a leadership role in the discussion on human security as a member of the Council on National Strategy and Policy. I would also like to ask for her continued guidance and encouragement in the important issues both within and outside Japan, including international cooperation and the issues of Afghanistan.
When we experienced the Great East Japan Earthquake last March, Japan received warm offers of assistance from over 160 countries and more than 40 international organizations. I believe that such offers are by no means unrelated to the past achievements of Dr. Ogata. It is because there was a Japanese person who stood at the forefront and worked hard for the world that we were able to receive such warm support from throughout the world. Also from such perspective, I would like once again to express my sincere gratitude as Prime Minister to the contributions and achievements of Dr. Ogata until now."