Following is the gist of remarks made by Mr. Takashi Imai, Chairman, Keidanren, at a scheduled press conference on 26 April 2001. Translation is rush and tentative, and sequence of the gist does not necessarily coincide with words delivered.
(Asked on his views on Mr. Koizumi becoming new Prime Minister)
A feeling of distrust against existing political parties played a vital part in deciding outcome, preventing traditional LDP system from working. I learned there is a sense of scare among LDP's local members over upcoming elections on national and local level. A positive aspect of the party election is the fact four candidates debated their policies in an open. This should have brought some interests back to the Japanese citizens.
(Asked if Mr. Koizumi can win over old LDP guards to attain his policy goals)
He rammed through the old party barriers in his selection of key party posts. He also managed to keep coalition partners intact. Nevertheless, he will have to go on a tightrope over how much he will force his policy goals.
On his will to privatize the postal services, one must remember that it will be transformed into a public corporation. Even though I support his endeavors, many Japanese people support the post office businesses. Mr. Koizumi will have to show the nation why privatization is necessary and how he is going to change it.
On his plan to limit the national bond issue at 30 trillion yen, it appears quite reasonable for now.
(Asked if he supports a supplementary budget drafting)
I think Japan will achieve growth between zero to one percent during fiscal 2001, meaning no immediate supplementary budget is necessary. The government should seek other ways first before considering spending additional money.
(Asked on safeguard measures on agricultural goods and Japan-China relations)
By WTO emergency safeguard is allowed. What we have to keep eyes on is that it should not prolong or else we fall into protectionism. On Japan-China relationship in general, I believe that the safeguard measures should not trigger escalating into a series of retaliations.