This will result in significant improvements in forming regional identity and achieving self-supportive economic development. Five years have already passed since the Third Okinawa Promotion Development Plan was instituted. Various policies under the Plan have already been enforced. While drastic circumstantial changes, including the reduction of U.S. military bases on Okinawa, have been taking place, it is expected that the search for new possibilities and countermeasures for existing issues will arise through the efforts of the Okinawan people in tackling their own problems. Thus, the formation of the international cities or crossroads for people, goods, and information will enable Okinawa to become economically self-supportive and a region contributing to Japan's economic development.
Globalization is remarkable today, and Japan shares a major part in the world's economy.
Japan is expected to construct a domestically and outwardly open system in harmony with other nations, and to promote alliances as well as cooperation with foreign countries in order to resolve world issues so that global peace and prosperity can be realized. International exchanges and cooperation may be considered the driving forces in vitalizing the region. Each region is expected to play a unique role suited to its own particular character. Okinawa is located on the southwestern edge of Japan, is rich in natural beauty and enjoys a unique culture. The Okinawan heritage is a gift from past historic exchanges with Southeast Asian countries in the fields of economy and culture.