JAPAN'S ROLE IN COOPERATION IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION

1. Japan assumes the chairmanship of APEC next year. People in the other APEC nations as well as in Japan are counting on Japan to take positive initiative in promoting cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.

2. Japan's public and private sectors should work jointly to assist Asia-Pacific countries in their endeavors for building infrastructure, cultivating human resources, and fostering supporting industries.

3. Japanese companies should use their technology and know-how to help safeguard the environment in their host countries.

4. Japan should press ahead with deregulation to open its markets and expand import of manufacturing products.