Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda attended the 41st meeting of the Council for Gender Equality at the Prime Minister's Office.

Discussion took place on the report from the specialist committee and the Action Plan for Economic Revival through Women's Active Participation.

Based on the discussion, the Prime Minister said, "Tapping the ability of women is one of the frontiers of Japan, and I find it to be the greatest potential our country has. I believe that the active advancement of women is essential for revitalizing Japan.
The London 2012 Games of the XXX Olympiad are currently being held amongst great excitement. In the world of sports, the active role of women has now become a commonplace. I would like to promote the active participation of women not only in the world of sports but also in all areas of society. I believe that we must make a society wherein women naturally serve an active role, whether as a public servant, researcher or a company executive, as in the world of sports.
We have recently formulated an action plan named "Operation Working Nadeshiko," which was also included in the Strategy for Rebirth of Japan as a prioritized issue. I believe that the entire society is gaining momentum to call for the active participation of women. The government's and considerate people's progressive approach will be important so that such momentum will be the ignition point for changing the entire society."