The importance of achieving ever expanding trade horizons. The importance of helping the less fortunate countries in our region rebuild from the adverse effect of the Asian economic downturn. And I had the opportunity today, Prime Minister, to say to you how much I admired the work that you in particular have done to strengthen and revive the Japanese economy. And it is clear already that benefit is being enjoyed by Japanese industry and the Japanese people from the measures that your Government has undertaken. The strength of the Japanese economy is not only important to the Japanese people but the strength of the Japanese economy is of immense importance to the region and the entire world.
Japan is the second most powerful economy in the world.
Japan has played a major role in the wealth and the prosperity not only of our region but of the entire world over the last 30 years. And we follow very closely and very encouragingly the leadership that your Government is giving in bringing about a strengthening of the Japanese economy. It is stronger now than it has been for more than 30 years. We have the lowest number of industrial disputes in Australia for almost 90 years. And we are an increasingly attractive country in which to invest.