Presentation Ceremony for the Prime Minister’s Cup of the Japan Pro Sports Awards
Cabinet Secretariat, Thursday, December 20, 2018
[Provisional translation]
On December 20, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attended the 2018 51st Presentation Ceremony for the Prime Minister’s Cup of the Japan Pro Sports Awards, held in Tokyo.
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Japan-Zambia Summit Meeting and Other Events
Cabinet Secretariat, Wednesday, December 19, 2018
[Provisional Translation]
On December 19, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held a summit meeting and other events with H.E. Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, President of the Republic of Zambia, at the Prime Minister’s Office.
The two leaders attended a salute and guard of honor ceremony, followed by a summit meeting. Afterwards, the leaders held a signing ceremony and a joint press announcement, and then issued a Joint Statement between Japan and the Republic of Zambia.
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Foreign Minister Kono Pays a Courtesy Call on His Excellency Mr. Edgar C. Lungu President of the Republic of Zambia
Foreign Affairs, Tuesday, December 18, 2018
On December 18, commencing at 5 p.m.for approximately 20 minutes, Mr. Taro Kono, Minister for Foreign Affairs, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Edgar C. Lungu, President of the Republic of Zambia, who is paying an official working visit to Japan. The overview of the meeting is as follows.
Minister Kono stated that he was honored to welcome President Lungu and expressed his hope that President Lungu’s visit to Japan will reinforce the friendly relations between the two countries. In response, President Lungu expressed his gratitude for Japan’s consistent support to Zambia.
Minister Kono expressed his hope for President Lungu’s attendance in the TICAD7 which will be held in Yokohama in August next year. In response, President Lungu stated he is looking forward to attending at the TICAD7 and that Zambia will cooperate for the success of TICAD7.
Furthermore, Minister Kono stated that Japan will continue to support Zambia’s sustainable development through cooperation in such area as health, human resources development and infrastructure development. Also, the two sides exchanged views on enhancing bilateral relations, including in the field of economy, and welcomed the substantial progress of the negotiation on the bilateral investment agreement.
Minister Kono appreciated Zambia’s support for Osaka, Kansai in the election of the host country of World Expo 2025 and called on Zambia’s participation in the Expo.
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Council for Science, Technology and Innovation
Cabinet Secretariat, Thursday, December 20, 2018
[Provisional translation]
On December 20, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held the 41st meeting of the Council for Science, Technology and Innovation at the Prime Minister’s Office.
At the meeting, discussion was held on university reform, AI and the draft Basic Concept on the Moonshot Type R&D Scheme.
Based on the discussion, the Prime Minister said,
“We have now reached the stage of a full-scale implementation of university reform.
Firstly, we will steadily proceed with reform of the personnel salary system, such as strict performance evaluations including a basic salary, with the aim of the full installation of an annual salary system. Furthermore, we will consider policies to increase the mobility of researchers.
Additionally, from next fiscal year, we will support universities carrying out management reforms through the allocation of approximately 10% of the national university management subsidies based on reform progress, as determined primarily by objective and comparable common metrics, such as the percentage of young researchers and the state of private funding. In order to promote strategic and systematic management reforms by enhancing this approach, we will review the method for disbursing operational expense grants during the fourth mid-term goal period.
Furthermore, we will strongly support university reforms towards institutions that are capable of strategic acquisition and distribution of operational resources by allowing national university corporations to consolidate and operate multiple universities under one entity with a bill to be submitted to the next ordinary session of the Diet, and promoting the separation of administrative and educational functions under a new university governance code.
As the competition continues to grow fiercer among countries in the field of AI, there is an urgent need to formulate a national strategy with a view to the future. The development of human resources is the key to such a national strategy. Towards our major goal to cultivate world-class AI talent and create a society where all members obtain AI literacy, whatever their academic background, whether humanities or sciences, I ask relevant ministers to proceed with the planning of concrete strategies in the direction of including bold and specific deregulations throughout our education system covering elementary, secondary, and higher education, as well as recurrent (continuing) education.
At the same time, our intention is for Japan to lead the global debates regarding AI, by foreseeing the direction of the future development of AI and establishing the basic principles of the use of AI, including the principle of human-centricity.
Based on these principles I have just outlined, I ask Chief Cabinet Secretary Suga, Minister Hirai, and other relevant ministers to exert efforts towards the formulation of Japan’s first national AI strategy by the summer of 2019, with the government acting in unison.”
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Meeting of the Council on Economic and Fiscal Policy
Cabinet Secretariat, Thursday, December 20, 2018
[Provisional translation]
On December 20, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held the 17th meeting of the Council on Economic and Fiscal Policy in 2018, at the Prime Minister’s Office.
At the meeting, a discussion was held on the new reform time schedule, a thematic topic of the Integrated Economic and Fiscal Reforms; countermeasures for the planned increase in the consumption tax rate; and the Fiscal 2019 Economic Outlook.
Based on the discussions, the Prime Minister said,
“Today is this year’s final meeting of the Council on Economic and Fiscal Policy. First and foremost, I express my profound gratitude to all the council members for engaging in intensive deliberations throughout the year. Thank you very much.
Today, the council first finalized the reform time schedule to achieve the New Plan to Advance Economic and Fiscal Revitalization. There can be no fiscal consolidation without economic revitalization. The Abe Cabinet will vigorously navigate the waters of the Integrated Economic and Fiscal Reforms, with this time schedule as a nautical chart.
I would like Minister of State for Economic and Fiscal Policy Motegi to thoroughly review the progress and outcomes while implementing the PDCA cycle, and report the findings to the Council as the helmsman.
In addition, Minister Motegi reported to us on the countermeasures for the planned increase in the consumption tax rate. We also received a report from the Cabinet Office regarding the Fiscal 2019 Economic Outlook, which was recently approved by the Cabinet.
Looking ahead to the increase in the consumption tax rate in October 2019, it is important that we thoroughly carry out the countermeasures to level out any fluctuations in demand before and after the increase, and maintain the recovery trend in the economy.
To that end, I ask Minister Motegi to appropriately manage the progress and exert every effort for macroeconomic management.”
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Ministerial Council on the Monthly Economic Report and Other Relative Issues
Cabinet Secretariat, Thursday, December 20, 2018
[Provisional translation]
On December 20, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attended a meeting of the Ministerial Council on the Monthly Economic Report and Other Relative Issues at the Prime Minister’s Office.
Regarding the assessment of the current state of the Japanese economy, the December Monthly Economic Report states, “The Japanese economy is recovering at a moderate pace.” Furthermore, concerning short-term prospects, the Report states, “The economy is expected to continue recovering, supported by the effects of the policies, while employment and income situation is improving. However, attention should be given to the risks including the effects of situations over trade issues on the world economy, the uncertainty in overseas economies and the effects of fluctuations in the financial and capital markets.”
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Ministerial Council on the Strengthening of the Maritime Security System
Cabinet Secretariat, Tuesday, December 18, 2018
[Provisional Translation]
On December 18, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held a meeting of the Ministerial Council on the Strengthening of the Maritime Security System at the Prime Minister’s Office.
At the meeting, a discussion was held on the status of the initiatives for strengthening the coast guard system.
Based on the discussion, the Prime Minister said,
“We have been enhancing and strengthening Japan’s coast guard system since the year before last, in response to the increasingly severe situation in the waters surrounding Japan.
Even now, in the waters around the Senkaku Islands, foreign government vessels still repeatedly intrude into territorial waters. In the Sea of Japan, there has been a succession of infringements of fisheries sovereignty by foreign fishing vessels, as well as of the drifting ashore of wooden boats, which are suspected to be from North Korea.
The Government must steadily strengthen the coast guard system to enable the members of the Japan Coast Guard, who continue to protect the seas of Japan in this severe environment, to fulfill their noble mission with high morale.
Therefore, as part of the initial budget for FY2019 and while also using the FY2018 supplementary budget, we will advance efforts to secure large-scale patrol vessels for the patrol of territorial waters around the Senkaku Islands, new jets for maritime surveillance, medium-scale aircraft for maritime surveys, and the necessary personnel and operating funds for conducting such work, as well as efforts to expand and enhance education and training facilities.
At the same time, it is important to establish an international maritime order through partnerships with other countries in order to realize a free and open Indo-Pacific. Last month, in Australia, we held the exchange of notes ceremony on cooperation between Japanese and Australian Coast Guard authorities. Taking that opportunity, I encouraged the crewmembers of the patrol vessel Echigo, which conducts patrols in the Sulu and Celebes Seas where piracy incidents occur frequently.
The duties of the Japan Coast Guard are becoming ever more diverse, as symbolized by the efforts such as the crackdown of foreign fishing vessels and sea rescues domestically, and the patrol vessel Echigo engaging in strengthening international partnerships overseas.
We will protect our peaceful and bountiful seas. To this end, I would like to ask the relevant ministries and agencies to continue to pool their efforts to strengthen the coast guard system, and in cooperation with other countries, fulfill wide-ranging duties and exert every effort to ensure maritime security.”
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Council on Overcoming Population Decline and Vitalizing Local Economy
Cabinet Secretariat, Tuesday, December 18, 2018
[Provisional Translation]
On December 18, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held the 17th meeting of the Council on Overcoming Population Decline and Vitalizing Local Economy in Japan at the Prime Minister’s Office.
At the meeting, a discussion was held on the revision of the comprehensive strategy for overcoming population decline and vitalizing local economy, and on best practices in regional revitalization.
Based on the discussion, the Prime Minister said,
“Today, while time was very limited, we heard from Mr. Maki, Ms. Ushida, Mr. Shitanaka, and Mr. Sera, who work hard in their designated communities.
Our speakers, while overcoming various difficulties, continuously embark on new challenges, believing that there are opportunities to be found in their communities or that they can lead more enriching lives in their communities. You are the frontrunners in regional revitalization and the stars of hope. I very much look forward to your further success.
In the past, moving to regions outside the capital city used to be associated with post-retirement life. Over the last few years, however, there has been growing interest in moving to these areas, primarily among the young generation.
According to Furusato Kaiki Shien Center (Hometown Return Support Center) in Tokyo, nearly half of the people who came to its office for consultation ten years ago were aged 60 or older. In general, people start thinking about returning to their hometowns when they reach an age like mine and seek consultation. In recent years, however, the number of consultations itself has increased by more than ten times, and the working generation in their 50s and younger now makes up 90% of the people who consult the Center.
We must not let this chance pass us by. The Government will exert its efforts to create a steady flow of people to these areas by introducing unprecedented support measures, such as provision of up to 3 million yen, and providing strong supports to start businesses or work through U-turns (from their hometown in a local district to a city and back), I-turns (from their hometown in a local district to a different local district), and J-turns (from their hometown in a local district to a nearby city).
Taking into account today’s discussion, we will revise the comprehensive strategy and strengthen our initiatives for regional revitalization.
It has been four years since the first comprehensive strategy for overcoming population decline and vitalizing local economy was formulated, and we are about to enter the fifth and final year. I would like to ask Minister Katayama to proceed considerations towards the formulation of the second comprehensive strategy, aimed at FY2020 and beyond, based on various regional revitalization initiatives which have been implemented thus far.
Regional revitalization is an issue of utmost importance for the Abe administration. We will continue to take steps to further accelerate regional revitalization, with the Government working in unity. I would like to ask relevant ministers to exert every effort in their respective positions.”
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Luncheon with Japanese-Speaking Ambassadors to Japan
Cabinet Secretariat, Friday, December 14, 2018
[Provisional Translation]
On December 14, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe hosted a luncheon for Japanese-speaking ambassadors accredited to Japan, at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence.
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
The General Assembly of Japan’s National Council for Export Promotion of Agricultural, Forestry and Fishery Products and Processed Foods
Cabinet Secretariat, Wednesday, December 19, 2018
[Provisional Translation]
On December 19, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attended the 2018 General Assembly of Japan’s National Council for Export Promotion of Agricultural, Forestry and Fishery Products and Processed Foods held in Tokyo.
The Prime Minister said in his address,
“I would like to offer some remarks upon the FY2018 General Assembly of Japan’s National Council for Export Promotion of Agricultural, Forestry and Fishery Products and Processed Foods.
To begin with, I express my heartfelt congratulations to everyone who was awarded today for their distinguished contributions to the promotion of Japanese food overseas. You have my respect for your long-standing and dedicated efforts to promote Japanese food overseas where eating habits are different.
This Council was established in 2005 with the purpose of aggressively expanding exports of Japan’s agricultural, forestry and fishery products as well as food products. At that time, exports amounted to approximately 400 billion yen. This figure has now more than doubled and is set to reach 900 billion yen this year, a new record.
Against this backdrop, producing areas across Japan are embarking on a variety of endeavors. An agricultural production corporation in Nagano Prefecture, which produces rice in an upland area for export, contributes to the employment of young people and the prevention of the abandonment of cultivation. I have also heard at a production area of greenhouse melons in Shizuoka Prefecture that its challenge to expand into overseas markets has given pride and confidence to the young people succeeding the business.
The TPP11 Agreement (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership) will enter into force at the end of this year, and the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between Japan and the EU (European Union) has already been approved by the Diet. These agreements will further increase opportunities to expand exports of delicious and safe products made in Japan, such as beef, green tea, fishery products. We are steadily working on the easing and elimination of overseas regulations that are acting as a barrier to Japanese exports. I myself have seized a range of opportunities, such as summit meetings, to call on countries to ease or eliminate such regulations. This year, the four prefectures of Northern Kanto have been allowed to export fruits and other products by Hong Kong, the top export destination of Japan’s agricultural, forestry and fishery products and foods. The regulations on rice export from Niigata has been also lifted by China.
Going forward, let us achieve our 1 trillion yen export target by next year, with Minister Yoshikawa and everyone attending today’s General Assembly working together, and further increase exports. The Abe Cabinet will continue to fully support everyone engaged in exports. In closing, I would like to conclude my remarks by wishing everyone here further success and the further development of Japan’s regions through increased exports of Japan’s delicious and safe agricultural, forestry and fishery products to other countries. Congratulations on your awards today.”
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Joint Meeting of the Strategic Headquarters for the Promotion of an Advanced Information and Telecommunications Network Society (IT Strategic Headquarters) and the Strategic Council for the Promotion of the Use of Public Data by the Private Sector
Cabinet Secretariat, Wednesday, December 19, 2018
[Provisional Translation]
On December 19, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe jointly held the 75th meeting of the Strategic Headquarters for the Promotion of an Advanced Information and Telecommunications Network Society (IT Strategic Headquarters), and the 6th meeting of the Strategic Council for the Promotion of the Use of Public Data by the Private Sector, at the Prime Minister’s Office.
At the meeting, an exchange of views took place on the Direction of a New IT Policy for the Digital Era.
Based on the exchange of views, the Prime Minister said,
“The Direction of a New IT Policy, which was approved today, will serve as a compass for guiding Japan in a digital era where changes happen at whirlwind speed in response to the progress in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. I would like to ask each minister to immediately work on laying down concrete policies in accordance with this direction approved today.
Fierce competition is currently unfolding around the world over data, a new resource in the age of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data. Meanwhile, in order to generate innovations by utilizing data, we need to create an environment where data can flow freely under highly transparent, fair, and mutually beneficial rules on security and privacy.
Therefore, I would like to ask you, with Minister Seko taking the lead, to promote international cooperation to create a free and open global data flow zone under Japan’s leadership, while ensuring appropriate protection of personal information and critical industry data.
As its premise, I ask relevant ministers to immediately begin work on strengthening our system and developing the necessary domestic laws and ordinances, including the Act on the Protection of Personal Information.
There is a pressing need to digitalize the public and private sectors in Japan. Please firmly promote various efforts, with the public and private sectors working closely together, such as human resources development in the era of AI and the reforms of outdated systems.
With regard to these policies, I ask that each minister, under the leadership of Minister Hirai, compile new IT policy principles for the Society 5.0 era and swiftly implement them.”
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Council on National Strategic Special Zones
Cabinet Secretariat, Monday, December 17, 2018
[Provisional translation]
On December 17, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held the 37th meeting of the Council on National Strategic Special Zones at the Prime Minister's Office.
At the meeting, a discussion was held on the certification of special zone plans, the Super City Initiative, and additional regulatory reform items that should be prioritized, among other matters.
Based on the discussion, the Prime Minister said,
“Around the world, cutting-edge urban planning, which utilize AI and big data, is rapidly transitioning from the experimentation stage to the practical use stage.
We must swiftly materialize a Super City that proactively implements these pioneering innovations in various aspects of urban life in Japan too.
Please immediately advance consideration over technologies and services that a Super City should implement, with the relevant ministries putting heads together. At the same time, we also need creative rules that could actively encourage innovation. I would also ask you to thoroughly work on preparing institutional arrangements in order to eliminate any governance gaps, using the National Strategic Special Zones scheme.
Today we identified the priority items that we will work towards in the materialization of National Strategic Special Zones.
Improving education; realizing health care that is available any time, any place; and developing a cashless society are all among the important areas that are integral parts of Japan’s growth strategy.
The National Strategic Special Zones scheme remains the way to reform bedrock regulations, and I ask all the relevant ministers to work on this in unity.”
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Ceremony to Commend Leading Companies Where Women Shine
Cabinet Secretariat, Monday, December 17, 2018
[Provisional translation]
On December 17, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attended a ceremony to commend leading companies where women shine, at the Prime Minister's Office.
The Prime Minister said in his address,
“I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to the recipients today of these awards to commend leading companies where women shine.
This is the fifth annual ceremony, and recognition of this award has been gradually growing. I was told that a company commended last year has been highly recognized by students for the active participation of women in its workplace and the number of female applicants has increased, resulted in the hiring of many talented female employees.
Women make up half of all consumers.
Therefore, it is fair to say that the inability to understand how to develop products and services that women want to purchase and how to market products with women’s sensibilities can be fatal for businesses. We are in an age where talented female employees are the source of companies’ competitiveness and securing such employees is the core of their human resources and growth strategies.
In particular, the initiative by Saitama Resona Bank to promote the active participation of women not just within its own companies, but at its partner companies as well, is not only highly progressive but also truly economically rational, as it promotes the growth of local companies, which in turn benefits the bank’s core business as a financial institution. The active participation of women is the key to the new growth of the Japanese economy. Based on that strong recognition, the Abe administration has hoisted the flag high for it since its inauguration, and undertaken various initiatives to that end, including increasing the capacity of childcare facilities and enhancing paid childcare leave. As a result, the number of women in the workforce has increased by 2 million over these past five years, and the participation rate of women over 25 years old in all age categories has even surpassed that of the United States. We are seeing dramatic improvement in the issue of the so-called “M-shaped curve,” which has long been pointed out as an issue.
On the flip side, the competition to employ talented women is growing ever fiercer. I would therefore like to make a comment to all companies: we are now transitioning to an age where you need to shift your efforts to the next level towards a more workable environment for women if you are looking for talented female staff.
Yesterday marked the final episode of the television period drama “Segodon,” which featured the Meiji Restoration movement that started from Kagoshima. Shin Nippon Biomedical Laboratories is also from Kagoshima, the birthplace of this movement. With Kagoshima’s progressive nature, which led to the modernization of Japan during the Meiji period, the company leverages the voices of the women in the workplace and takes on new challenges, including addressing health needs specific to women, one after another.
Everyone commended here today is a true front-runner in promoting the active participation of women. Going forward, I ask you to continue serving as a leading, model company in your community and for Japan, and spread your wisdom on promoting women’s active participation. I also hope that you will drive the future growth of the Japanese economy. In concluding my remarks, I wish for your continued success and advancement towards a society in which all women shine. Congratulations once again.”
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Forum for Consultations between the National and Local Governments
Cabinet Secretariat, Monday, December 17, 2018
[Provisional Translation]
On December 17, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attended the third meeting in FY2018 of the Forum for Consultations between the National and Local Governments, held at the Prime Minister’s Office.
At the meeting, discussion took place on the formation of the FY2019 budget and local finance measures.
The Prime Minister said in his opening address,
“Thank you very much for taking time out of your busy schedules to attend this meeting today.
We intend to proceed with the formulation of the FY2019 budget and local finance measures based on today’s discussion.
This year, large-sale natural disasters struck Japan one after another throughout its regions. We will accelerate disaster recover with the supplementary budget of approximately 900 billion yen that was recently passed in the Diet.
Furthermore, we have compiled three-year emergency response measures on a scale of 7 trillion yen in order to build resilient hometowns in which everyone can live with peace of mind, based on the results of a nation-wide inspection of infrastructure. Among these measures, we will immediately work on those measures that need to be implemented as part of the first fiscal year of this plan, using the second supplementary budget.
When formulating the budget for next fiscal year, we will thoroughly include measures to sustain the recovery trend of the economy and, in addition, create a new growth trajectory.
Among those measures, in regard to the consumption tax increase in October next year, we will introduce tuition-free early childhood education and firmly invest together with local governments in our children, who will represent the future, while incorporating a full set of countermeasures. I would like to ask for your understanding and cooperation in each of our policy measures.
Japan will not have vitality unless its regions do as well. The Abe administration’s efforts towards regional revitalization are entering the fifth year. The Regional Vitalization Cooperation Volunteers initiative has grown into a massive project in which over 5,000 volunteers work in various communities, an increase of over 10 times since the change in government. 60% of the volunteers have settled down in their communities after the end of their terms. I would like this trend to expand throughout Japan. In addition to expanding the Cooperation Volunteers, we will create an environment where young people feel there is opportunity in Japan’s local communities by supporting businesses launched by young people making U-turns (from one’s hometown in a local district to a city and back), I-turns (from one’s hometown in a local district to a different local district) and J-turns (from one’s hometown in a local district to a nearby city), that is to say truly local start-ups.
The Government will listen carefully to the voices of the local communities and firmly promote policies to revitalize the regions. Thank you very much.”
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
National Resilience Promotion Headquarters and Ministerial Meeting on Emergency Inspection of Critical Infrastructure
Cabinet Secretariat, Friday, December 14, 2018
[Provisional Translation]
On December 14, 2018, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held the ninth meeting of the National Resilience Promotion Headquarters and third Ministerial Meeting on Emergency Inspection of Critical Infrastructure, at the Prime Minister’s Office.
At the meeting, there was discussion on the draft Fundamental Plan for National Resilience and the draft three-year emergency response plan for disaster prevention, disaster mitigation, and building national resilience.
Based on the discussion at the meeting, the Prime Minister said,
“We will create a country that possesses strength and resilience, not giving in to disasters. We must continue on this path of national resilience as Japan’s grand plan for the long-term future. In particular, in recent years, since disasters have grown in intensity, disaster prevention, disaster mitigation, and building national resilience for the protection of the lives and property of the people have become important and urgent issues, and we must continue to advance these efforts swiftly.
.
Today, we finalized the Fundamental Plan for National Resilience and the three-year emergency response plan for disaster prevention, disaster mitigation, and building national resilience, based on our experiences and lessons learned up to this point, as well as latest knowledge in these areas, including the findings of the overall inspection of infrastructure. We have included new policies to advance Japan’s national resilience strategically and steadily with a long-term view in the Fundamental Plan for National Resilience, which we have reviewed for the first time since its inception in 2014. Furthermore, in the three-year emergency response plan, which is part of the Fundamental Plan, we include 160 measures that need urgent implementation. The scale of those measures is expected to amount to around 7 trillion yen. We would like to finance those measures that need to be implemented swiftly in the first year, with the second supplementary budget of FY2018, and those afterwards utilizing the emergency and special measures for FY2019 and 2020 in response to the consumption tax increase.
Our efforts to build national resilience are entering a new stage of being accelerated and deepened. Based on the Fundamental Plan for National Resilience and the three-year emergency response plan for disaster prevention, disaster mitigation, and building national resilience that we finalized today, I would like each minister to work closely together with local governments and members of the private sector and exert every effort to create resilient hometowns in which anyone can live with peace of mind.”
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Japan-Colombia Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
Foreign Affairs, Wednesday, December 19, 2018
On December 19, commencing at 6:30 p.m. for approximately 70 minutes, Mr. Taro Kono, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a meeting over dinner with H.E. Mr. Carlos Holmes Trujillo, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Colombia. The overview of the meeting is as follows.
Prior to the Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, a ceremony for the signing of the Japan-Colombia Tax Convention by the two ministers was held.
1. At the beginning, Minister Kono welcomed Minister Trujillo’s visit to Japan, and stated that it is a great pleasure to welcome Minister Trujillo to Japan, drawing an end to the celebrations of this year’s 110th anniversary of Japan-Colombia diplomatic relations. Minister Kono also stated that Colombia is an important partner which shares fundamental values with Japan, and that Japan seeks to further develop their friendly relationship. In response, Minister Trujillo stated that it is an honor to visit Japan and that signing of the Tax Convention is a step forward for the economic relation betwenn Japan and Colombia.
2. Minister Kono stated that over 90 Japanese companies are currently carrying out business in Colombia, and welcomed the tax convention just signed by the ministers, noting that it would further promote investments and economic exchanges between the two countries. The two ministers also touched upon the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP11) Agreement and the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) being negotiated between Japan and Colombia, and shared the view on the importance of promoting economic collaboration between the two countries.
3. Minister Kono informed that Japan has decided to introduce multiple entry visa for Colombian nationals, and expressed this expectation that this would contribute to invigorating people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.
4. In addition to the bilateral relationship, the two ministers also exchanged views regarding cooperating in the international arena and regional affairs such as the North Korea issue and the situation in Venezuela, including assistance for displaced Venezuelan citizen. The two ministers shared the view on deepening the Japan-Colombia cooperative relationship.
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Foreign Minister Taro Kono Meets with the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency
Foreign Affairs, Monday, December 17, 2018
1. Minister Kono stated that the IAEA’s safeguards system is a core of the international nuclear nonproliferation regime and he hopes that Director General Amano will continue to exercise his leadership. With regard to North Korea, Minister Kono stated that he hopes to continue to coordinate closely with the IAEA.
2. Director General Amano stated that the IAEA has enhanced its capability of monitoring North Korea’s nuclear related activities and publicized the results in August and November this year, and explained its ongoing efforts. Director General Amano also explained the current situation surrounding the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
3. Minister Kono and Director General Amano reaffirmed that they will continue to coordinate closely on various issues.
[Reference] International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
(1) The IAEA is the international organization established in 1957 for the purposes of promoting the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and preventing the diversion of nuclear energy for military purposes based on the Statute of the IAEA. (There are currently 170 Member States.)
(2) Director General Amano has held the post of Director General since December 2009 and is currently serving his third term which is from December 1, 2017 to November 30, 2021. The General Conference of the IAEA approved his third term in September 2017.
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Japan-Romania Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
Foreign Affairs, Saturday, December 15, 2018
On December 15 (Saturday), commencing at 1:50 p.m. (local time; 7:50 p.m. Japan time) for approximately 20 minutes, Mr. Taro Kono, Minister for Foreign Affairs, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Teodor Melescanu, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Romania, during his visit to Qatar. The overview of the meeting is as follows.
1. Minister Kono and Minister Melescanu shared the view that they work together towards the establishment of a bilateral strategic partnership, as part of the follow-up of the visit to Romania by Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, in January 2018.
2. In addition, the two ministers affirmed that Japan and Romania will reinforce their cooperation in the context of Japan-EU relations, as Romania will assume the EU Presidency in the first half of 2019.
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
First Japan-Jordan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue
Foreign Affairs, Friday, December 14, 2018
On December 14, commencing at 8 p.m. (local time; December 15, 3 a.m. Japan time) for approximately 40 minutes, Mr. Taro Kono, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held the first Japan-Jordan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue(note) with H.E. Mr. Ayman Safadi, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, during Minister Kono's visit to Jordan. The overview of the meeting is as follows. The meeting was followed by a dinner hosted by Minister Safadi.
At the beginning, Minister Safadi expressed appreciation for His Majesty King Abdullah II's successful visit to Japan in late November and welcomed that the first Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue was being held soon after His Majesty the King's visit to Japan. Minister Safadi stated that Jordan highly values the role Japan plays for peace and stability in the Middle East region and that Jordan would continue to work closely with Japan for peace and stability of the region.
Minister Kono responded that His Majesty the King's visit to Japan in November was very meaningful and that it paved the way for deepening the strategic partnership between Japan and Jordan. Minister Kono welcomed the swift implementation of the Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue and commended Jordan's acceptance of many Syrian refugees and generous measures. The Minister stated that Japan would continue to fully support Jordan in these efforts and that the stability of Jordan was vital for the stability of the region.
The two ministers then held a broad exchange of views regarding the situation in the Middle East region including the Middle East Peace Process, the situation in Syria and the Gulf region, North Korea issues, among other matters. In addition, the two ministers shared the view that the two countries would cooperate on measures against extremism, including Aqaba Process.
(note) The first Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue was held following an agreement reached at the Japan-Jordan Summit Meeting (in Tokyo) on November 27, 2018 to conduct the dialogue.
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
The Adoption of the Resolution on the Situation of Human Rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) at the Plenary Meeting of the 73rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly
Foreign Affairs, Tuesday, December 18, 2018
1. The Resolution on the Situation of Human Rights in the DPRK on December 18 (December 17 local time) was adopted by consensus, at the Plenary Meeting of the 73rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly currently being held in New York. The resolution, co-tabled by Japan and the European Union (EU), has been adopted for 14 consecutive years.
2. Based on last year’s United Nations General Assembly resolution, the resolution this year condemns the North Korea’s gross human rights violations, and urges the North Korea to urgently take measures to end human rights violations.
3. The resolution also notes the urgency and importance of the issue of international abductions and of the immediate return of all abductees, as well as the long years of suffering experienced by abductees and their families, and expects the resolution of all issues related to the Japanese nationals, in particular the return of all abductees, to be achieved at the earliest possible date. In addition, the resolution strongly encourages the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to expedite the process for strengthening the capacity of the Office which the Human Rights Council decided in the last year’s resolution, and requests the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to strengthen activities including those for advocacy.
4. The adoption of the resolution by consensusdemonstrates the international community’s grave concerns about human rights violations in North Korea, including the abductions issue. Japan continues to strongly urge North Korea to sincerely accept the views of the international community expressed in this resolution and take concrete action towards the early resolution of the abductions issue and cooperation with the international community.
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Announcement of the G20 Osaka Summit Invited Guest Countries and International Organizations
Foreign Affairs, Tuesday, December 18, 2018
1. Japan will host the G20 Osaka Summit in June 2019 and has selected 8 countries and 9 international organizations as invited guests after taking into consideration their relevance to the summit agenda and their contributions to the G20.
(Invited Guest Countries)
Spain, Singapore, Vietnam, Chile, The Netherlands
ASEAN President (Thailand), African Union (AU) President (Egypt),
New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) President (Senegal)
(Invited Guest International Organizations)
United Nations, World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF), Financial Stability Board (FSB),
World Trade Organization (WTO), International Labour Organization (ILO),
Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD),
World Health Organization (WHO), Asian Development Bank (ADB)
2. With the contribution from leaders of each invited guest country and international organization, in addition to the G20 member countries, Japan is determined to lead the G20 Osaka summit towards success with the goal of achieving both economic growth and reduction of disparities, and contributing to the development agenda and other global issues. Through these efforts, Japan seeks to realize and promote a free and open, inclusive and sustainable, "Human-Centered Future Society."
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Announcement of the Official Logo for the 90th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relationship between Japan and the Islamic Republic of Iran in 2019
Foreign Affairs, Thursday, December 20, 2018
1. Details of entries and selection process
The official logo for "the 90th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relationship between Japan and the Islamic Republic of Iran in 2019" was adopted by both the Governments of Japan and Iran. There were 154 entries for the logo. This logo will be used in the memorial events in the both countries.
2. Logo
The creator is Mr. Yuto Imai, a Japanese student of Kindai University living in Mie Prefecture. "9" and "0" symbolize the national flag of Iran and the national flag of Japan with cherry blossom respectively. "90" expresses the connection between Japan and Iran with color gradation, and also represents an image of "∞" hoping for perpetuation of good relationship.
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
The Twelfth Japan International MANGA Award Winner Announcement
Foreign Affairs, Tuesday, December 18, 2018
1. The Japan International MANGA Award is given by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to MANGA artists who have contributed to the promotion of MANGA culture overseas and international cultural exchanges through MANGA. This year marks its 12th anniversary and we have received 331 entries from 68 countries and regions.
2. Following the selection process carried out in cooperation with the Association of MANGA Publishers, and the Jury of the Award led by Ms. Machiko Satonaka (Manga artist), a total of 15 winners, including one Gold Award and three Silver Award winners were chosen.
3. The ceremony for the Twelfth Japan International MANGA Award will be held in Tokyo on February 26th next year with the participation of the Gold and Silver winners.
4. Winners
(1) Gold Award
Title of Work: Yang Hao and his four compositions
Artist : Mr. Tang Xiao (Dani) (China)
(2) Silver Award
Title of Work: MISEYIEKI
Artist : Mr. Shangomola Edunjobi (England)
Title of Work: The Pork Chops Inferno
Artist : Mr. Lai Tat Wing (China (Hong Kong))
Title of Work: Planned Obsolescence of our feelings
Artist : Ms. Aimée de Jongh (Netherlands)&Mr. Zidrou (Belgium)
[Reference 1：Japan International MANGA Award]
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs founded the Japan International MANGA Award in 2007 for the purpose of expanding international exchange and mutual understanding through world-famous MANGA culture.
This award aims to honor MANGA artists who contribute to the development of MANGA culture in the world.
[Reference 2：Application]
There were 331 entries from 68 countries and regions this year. Countries and regions with most entries are Taiwan (1st: 38 entries), China (2nd: 32 entries), Thailand (3rd: 16 entries).
[Reference 3：Members of the Jury of the Award]
Ms. Machiko SATONAKA, Manga artist (chairperson)
Ms. Ban IPPONGI, Manga artist
Mr. Masafumi KUMATA, Publisher
Mr. Tsutomu FUJITA former Publisher
Mr. Mitsuru MIURA, Manga artist
[Reference 4：Members of the Executive Committee of the Award]
Mr. Taro KONO, Minister for Foreign Affairs (chairman)
Ms. Saya SHIRAISHI, Professor emeritus, Tokyo University
Mr. Kotaro SUGIYAMA, President, LIGHTPUBLICITY Co. Ltd.,
Mr. Frederik L. Schodt, American translator, interpreter and writer
Mr. Kiyoshi YOKOTA, Executive Director, SHOGAKUKAN Co. Ltd.,
Mr. Hiroyasu ANDO, President, Japan Foundation
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Statement on Monetary Policy (Bank of Japan)
Bank of Japan, Thursday, December 20, 2018
1 .At the Monetary Policy Meeting held today, the Policy Board of the Bank of Japan decided upon the following.
(1) Yield curve control
The Bank decided, by a 7-2 majority vote, to set the following guideline for market operations for the intermeeting period. [Note 1]
The short-term policy interest rate:
The Bank will apply a negative interest rate of minus 0.1 percent to the Policy-Rate
Balances in current accounts held by financial institutions at the Bank.
The long-term interest rate:
The Bank will purchase Japanese government bonds (JGBs) so that 10-year JGB
yields will remain at around zero percent. While doing so, the yields may move upward and downward to some extent mainly depending on developments in economic activity and prices.1 With regard to the amount of JGBs to be purchased, the Bank will conduct purchases in a flexible manner so that their amount outstanding will increase at an annual pace of about 80 trillion yen.
(2) Guidelines for asset purchases
With regard to asset purchases other than JGB purchases, the Bank decided, by a unanimous vote, to set the following guidelines.
a) The Bank will purchase exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and Japan real estate investment trusts (J-REITs) so that their amounts outstanding will increase at annual paces of about 6 trillion yen and about 90 billion yen, respectively. With a view to lowering risk premia of asset prices in an appropriate manner, the Bank may increase or decrease the amount of purchases depending on market conditions.
In case of a rapid increase in the yields, the Bank will purchase JGBs promptly and appropriately.
b) As for CP and corporate bonds, the Bank will maintain their amounts outstanding at about 2.2 trillion yen and about 3.2 trillion yen, respectively.
2. Japan's economy is expanding moderately, with a virtuous cycle from income to spending operating. Overseas economies have continued to grow firmly on the whole. In this situation, exports have been on an increasing trend. On the domestic demand side, business fixed investment has continued on an increasing trend, with corporate profits having been at high levels and business sentiment staying at a favorable level. Private consumption has been increasing moderately, albeit with fluctuations, against the background of steady improvement in the employment and income situation. Meanwhile, housing investment has been more or less flat. Public investment also has been more or less flat, remaining at a relatively high level. Reflecting these increases in demand both at home and abroad, industrial production has been on an increasing trend, and labor market conditions have continued to tighten steadily. Financial conditions are highly accommodative. On the price front, the year-on-year rate of change in the consumer price index (CPI, all items less fresh food) is around 1 percent. Inflation expectations have been more or less unchanged.
3. With regard to the outlook, Japan's economy is likely to continue its moderate expansion. Domestic demand is likely to follow an uptrend, with a virtuous cycle from income to spending being maintained in both the corporate and household sectors, mainly against the background of highly accommodative financial conditions and the underpinnings through government spending. Exports are expected to continue their moderate increasing trend on the back of overseas economies growing firmly on the whole. The year-on-year rate of change in the CPI is likely to increase gradually toward 2 percent, mainly on the back of the output gap remaining positive and medium- to long-term inflation expectations rising. [Note 2]
4. Risks to the outlook include the following: the U.S. macroeconomic policies and their impact on global financial markets; the consequences of protectionist moves and their effects; developments in emerging and commodity-exporting economies including the effects of the two aforementioned factors; negotiations on the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union (EU) and their effects; and geopolitical risks.
5. The Bank will continue with "Quantitative and Qualitative Monetary Easing (QQE) with Yield Curve Control," aiming to achieve the price stability target of 2 percent, as long as it is necessary for maintaining that target in a stable manner. It will continue expanding the monetary base until the year-on-year rate of increase in the observed CPI (all items less fresh food) exceeds 2 percent and stays above the target in a stable manner. As for policy rates, the Bank intends to maintain the current extremely low levels of short- and long-term interest rates for an extended period of time, taking into account uncertainties regarding economic activity and prices including the effects of the consumption tax hike scheduled to take place in October 2019. It will examine the risks considered most relevant to the conduct of monetary policy and make policy adjustments as appropriate, taking account of developments in economic activity and prices as well as financial conditions, with a view to maintaining the momentum toward achieving the price stability target. [Note 3]
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Tax Convention with Colombia was Signed
Ministry of Finance, Thursday, December 20, 2018
[Provisional translation]
1. On December 19 (Wednesday), the Government of Japan and the Government of the Republic of Colombia signed the Convention between Japan and the Republic of Colombia for the Elimination of Double Taxation with respect to Taxes on Income and the Prevention of Tax Evasion and Avoidance in Tokyo. This Convention is the first tax convention to be concluded between Japan and the Republic of Colombia in light of an increasingly close economic relationship between the two countries.
2. For the purpose of eliminating double taxation arising between the two countries, this Convention clarifies the scope of taxable income in the two countries. In addition, this Convention will enable the tax authorities of the two countries to consult each other on taxation not in accordance with the provisions of this Convention, to exchange information concerning tax matters and to mutually lend assistance in the collection of tax claims. It is expected that, while eliminating double taxation and preventing international tax evasion and tax avoidance, this Convention promotes further mutual investments and economic exchanges between the two countries.
【Reference 1】 Next Steps
After the approval in accordance with the domestic procedures of the two countries (in the case of Japan, approval by the Diet is necessary), this Convention will enter into force on the thirtieth day after the date of exchange of diplomatic notes indicating such approval and will have effect:
(a) in Japan:
(i) with respect to taxes levied on the basis of a taxable year, for taxes for any taxable years beginning on or
after 1 January in the calendar year next following that in which this Convention enters into force; and
(ii) with respect to taxes levied not on the basis of a taxable year, for taxes levied on or after 1 January in the
calendar year next following that in which this Convention enters into force; and
(b) in the Republic of Colombia:
(i) with respect to taxes withheld at source, for amounts paid or credited on or after 1 January of the calendar
year following that in which this Convention enters into force; and
(ii) with respect to all other taxes, for taxable years beginning on or after 1 January of the calendar year
following that in which this Convention enters into force.
(c) The provisions concerning the exchange of information and the assistance in the collection of taxes will have
effect from the date of entry into force of this Convention without regard to the date on which the taxes are levied
or the taxable year to which the taxes relate.
【Reference 2】 Texts and Key Points of the Convention
・“Convention between Japan and the Republic of Colombia for the Elimination of Double Taxation with respect to Taxes on Income and the Prevention of Tax Evasion and Avoidance”
・“Exchanged Notes concerning the Convention between Japan and the Republic of Colombia for the Elimination of Double Taxation with respect to Taxes on Income and the Prevention of Tax Evasion and Avoidance”
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
Tax Convention with Jamaica Agreed in Principle
Ministry of Finance, Friday, December 21, 2018
[Provisional translation]
1. The Government of Japan and the Government of Jamaica have agreed in principle on the tax convention between the two countries.
2. This Convention includes provisions for the purposes of clarifying the scope of taxation in the two countries, eliminating international double taxation and preventing tax evasion and avoidance, and is expected to promote further mutual investments and economic exchanges between the two countries.
3. This Convention will be signed after the necessary internal procedures have been completed by each of the two Governments. Thereafter, the Convention will enter into force after the completion of the domestic process in both countries (in the case of Japan, approval by the Diet is necessary).
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
New Tax Convention with Belgium will Enter into Force
Ministry of Finance, Friday, December 21, 2018
[Provisional translation]
1. On December 20, mutual notifications necessary for the entry into force of the Convention between Japan and the Kingdom of Belgium for the Elimination of Double Taxation with respect to Taxes on Income and the Prevention of Tax Evasion and Avoidance (signed on October 12, 2016) were completed between the Government of Japan and the Government of the Kingdom of Belgium.
2. This Convention, accordingly,will enter into force on January 19, 2019 (the thirtieth day after the date of completion of the mutual notifications) and will be applicable:
(a) in the case of Japan:
(i) with respect to taxes levied on the basis of a taxable period, for taxes for any taxable period beginning on or after January 1, 2020; and
(ii) with respect to taxes levied not on the basis of a taxable period, for taxes levied on or after January 1, 2020; and
(b) in the case of Belgium:
(i) with respect to taxes due at source, on income credited or payable on or after January 1, 2020;
(ii) with respect to other taxes on income, on income of taxable periods beginning on or after January 1, 2020; and
(iii) with respect to other taxes, on taxes due in respect of taxable events taking place on or after January 1, 2020.
【Reference】Texts and Outline of the Convention
・“Convention between Japan and the Kingdom of Belgium for the Elimination of Double Taxation with respect to Taxes on Income and the Prevention of Tax Evasion and Avoidance”
・Outline of the Convention.
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
"Exchange of Diplomatic Notes concerning Entry into Force of the Agreement
between the European Union and Japan for an Economic Partnership"
Foreign Affairs, Friday, December 21, 2018
On 21 December, in Brussels (Belgium), Japan and the European Union exchanged diplomatic notes to notify each other that their respective applicable legal requirements and procedures for entry into force of the Agreement between the European Union and Japan for an Economic Partnership (Japan-EU EPA) have been completed. With this exchange of notes, the Agreement will enter into force on 1 February, 2019.
This Agreement will promote liberalisation and facilitation of trade in goods and services and increase investment opportunities between Japan and the European Union, while also creating a framework for economic partnership in a broad range of fields such as electronic commerce, government procurement, competition policy, intellectual property and small and medium-sized enterprises.
It is expected that the entry into force of this Agreement will further invigorate the economies of Japan and the European Union and strengthen their relationship.
(Reference 1) The provision concerning entry into force of Japan-EU EPA (Article 23.3)
This Agreement shall enter into force on the first day of the second month following the date on which the Parties notify each other that their respective applicable legal requirements and procedures for entry into force of this Agreement have been completed, unless the Parties agree otherwise. The Parties shall make such notification through an exchange of diplomatic notes between the European Union and the Government of Japan.
(Reference 2) Japan’s EPAs
Japan-EU EPA will be the 17th EPA for Japan, following EPAs with Singapore, Mexico, Malaysia, Chile, Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei, ASEAN, the Philippines, Switzerland, Viet Nam, India, Peru, Australia and Mongolia and the TPP11 Agreement which will enter into force on 30 December 2018.
あのイーハトーヴォのすきとおった風、夏でも底に冷たさをもつ青いそら、うつくしい森で飾られたモリーオ市、郊外のぎらぎらひかる草の波。またそのなかでいっしょになったたくさんのひとたち、ファゼーロとロザーロ、羊飼のミーロや、顔の赤いこどもたち、地主のテーモ、山猫博士のボーガント・デストゥパーゴなど、いまこの暗い巨きな石の建物のなかで考えていると、
