Foreign Minister's comment at the inauguration of President Bush

January 21, 2001

I would like to extend my sincere congratulations on the inauguration of President Bush.
The role of the United States will continue to be vital in coping with the challenges facing the international community in the 21st century, and thus it is my sincere expectation that the new administration, under the able guidance of President Bush, will exercise strong leadership at home and abroad.
The Government of Japan, for its part, will make utmost efforts, together with the new administration, to deepen the policy coordination between the two countries through close dialogue on wide ranging issues including ways to advance bilateral cooperation for peace and prosperity of the international community.

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