In Asia and other regions, we see a general trend of recovery from the currency and financial crises. Japan, for its part, will continue its efforts to revitalize its own economy-a factor of major importance to revitalize the Asian economies, as well as to assist reform efforts by these countries to revitalize their economies. Poverty eradication and sustainable development in developing countries, including those of Asia and Africa, are issues we cannot overlook in achieving a future of greater prosperity. To this end, it is still essential to have developing countries engage in their own development, and to have developed countries and developing countries cooperate together as equal partners of the international community. During my recent visit to Europe, I came to be acutely aware that Europe is becoming an essentially important player in politics and the shaping of society in the 21st century.
Japan intends to strengthen cooperation with Europe in the political area.
In July this year, Japan will chair the Kyushu-Okinawa Summit. Needless to say, the Summit is the most important agenda in the diplomatic calendar this year. I have until now explained to the leaders and foreign ministers of many countries that Okinawa is a unique and fascinating place with a highly distinctive culture. I have also told them that participants will have ample time to deliberate on what the developed countries should do to build a future rich in creativity, while paying due respect to diversity of cultures and civilizations, being aware of the Asian perspective. As democracy matures in Japan, foreign policy and internal affairs have become more closely interlinked, and the role played by civil society in foreign policy attains ever greater importance.