Statement made by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Keizo Obuchi, on the Presidential Election in the Republic of the Philippines

May 29, 1998

1. The Government of Japan welcomes the election of Mr. Joseph E. Estrada as President of the Republic of the Philippines.
      Japan hopes that, blessed with the national expectations and support expressed through the election and continuing the numerous reforms initiated by President Ramos, the new president will positively address the tasks facing the Philippines and achieve further stability and development.
   
   
2. The Government of Japan has been supporting the Philippines' efforts for economic and social development as much as possible, and it will continue to support the country's renewed efforts for nation-building under the new administration.
   
   
3. Japan will also continue its efforts to further promote the friendly and cooperative relations jointly built by the two nations.