Chairman's Message

Today, Japan faces the extraordinary challenge of recovering from the massive disaster caused by the Great East Japan Earthquake. Now is the time for us, the people of Japan, to work as one on restoring the affected areas as soon as possible while also looking to the future and building a new Japan with a bold vision.

At the same time, the rapidly aging population, declining birth rates, and intensifying global economic competition are also among the most pressing issues for Japan. We should continue to tackle these challenges, undaunted by the disaster. We should be determined to carry out the government's New Growth Strategy, make our social security system and public finances sustainable, achieve the twin goals of environmental protection and economic growth, and advance economic integration by immediately participating in negotiations for the Trans-Pacific Strategic Economic Partnership (TPP), as well as by entering into economic partnership agreements (EPAs) and free-trade agreements (FTAs).

We, the people of Japan, have a wealth of experience and wisdom accumulated in the course of overcoming numerous adversities over the years. By bringing together this experience and wisdom, I am convinced that we can get over this crisis and emerge stronger again.

Keidanren will make every effort to enable Japan to recover from the disaster as soon as possible and, at the same time, will work to build a new Japan that is safe, secure, and vigorous by taking full advantage of the power of the private sector and enterpreneurship, while further strengthening partnerships with the international community. We would appreciate your continued support and cooperation.