Press Release
Speech by Japanese Prime Minister Abe at the North Atlantic Council
Embassy of Japan |
On January 12, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe delivered a speech to the North Atlantic Council (NAC) during his visit to the UK , Germany , Belgium and France , as the first Japanese Prime Minister to address the NAC.
In his speech, Prime Minister Abe stated that Japan “is ready to carry out what is required of it on the international level.” He made clear that as partners, Japan and NATO share such fundamental values as freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law, together with a common sense of responsibility toward global challenges.
Prime Minister Abe then called for Japan and NATO to move forward to a new phase of cooperation, explaining that the Japanese Government has already started laying the groundwork for enhanced future relations with NATO on peace building, reconstruction and disaster relief through consultations with NATO.
He promised that he will guide to continue to advance reforms and initiatives as a means to achieve his core vision for Japan as “a beautiful country” that is open to the world and ready to face the challenges that come our way.
The transcript of the entire speech is available at: http://www.mofa.go.jp/region/europe/pmv0701/nato.html
[Related links] * Prime Minister Abe’s visit to Europe - Prime Minister Visits Europe ( Germany ) (January 10) http://www.kantei.go.jp/foreign/abephoto/2007/01/10germany_e.html
- Prime Minister Visits Europe ( United Kingdom ) (January 9) http://www.kantei.go.jp/foreign/abephoto/2007/01/09uk_e.html
- Japan - UK Joint Statement (January 9) http://www.mofa.go.jp/region/europe/uk/joint0701.html
* Policy Speech by Prime Minister Abe to the 165th Session of the Diet ( October 2, 2006 ) http://www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/english/html/pressreleases/2006/1002.htm |