Comments on the Inauguration of the Reshuffled Fukuda Cabinet

Hiroshi Shimozuma
Chairman
Kansai Economic Federation

1. The reshuffled Fukuda Cabinet features a solid lineup capable of translating policy into action, with many new talents assuming cabinet posts including key ministerial positions. We believe that this reflects Prime Minister Fukuda's strong determination to realize his visions.

2. As we find ourselves in an increasingly difficult economic environment both at home and abroad, we hope that the new Fukuda Cabinet will further expedite the pathways toward structural reform with a view towards revitalizing regional economies, realizing decentralization, and increasing corporate competitiveness, while at the same time speedily implementing policies with cooperation from opposition parties as well.

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