Climate Change
Parliamentary Vice-Ministers for Foreign Affairs Iwao Horii Attends the Reception of International Symposium, "RI Asia Japan 2018"
On April 10, Mr. Iwao Horii, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs attended the reception of "RI Asia Japan 2018", an international symposium, which was held in Tokyo Stock Exchange, and delivered a speech on behalf of Mr. Taro Kono, Minister for Foreign Affairs. This symposium is a one of the biggest international symposium regarding socially responsible investment annually held in United States, Europe and Asia, and it is 5th conference held in Japan.
It gives me a great pleasure to join RI Asia Japan 2018 today. I am heartened to see so many participants to the event as Japan aspires to be the hub for fostering responsible investment and strong climate actions.
It is not accurate to view Sustainable Development Goals or climate change countermeasures as merely social or environmental agenda. As you all know, investment is the engine for economic growth, and governments around the world are scrambling to attract investments and businesses that are not only environmentally sound but also create jobs, enhance economic competitiveness. Under the banner of SDGs and the Paris Agreement, countries have already started a fierce competition for presenting a future vision. I have no intention to for letting Japan lag behind in this race.
The Japanese Government is taking the lead in promoting SDGs by deciding SDGs Action Plan 2018 at the SDGs Promotion Headquarters, chaired by Prime Minister Abe, with the presence of all cabinet ministers. In this Action Plan, the key focus was given to the promotion of so-called Society 5.0, regional vitaliization through SDGs, and empowerment of next generations and women.
We are heartened to see the strong contribution made by private businesses especially in the finance sector. GPIF is making stride in pioneering ESG investments worldwide, and here at Tokyo Stock Exchange, the Infrastructure Fund Market that specializes in renewable energy was established in 2015 and four investment equities are already listed. The government intends to work closely with these initiatives to further promote financial flows that support the SDGs and robust climate actions.
In closing, I would like to extend my best wishes for the host and all the participants for the active discussion and the bright prospect for the sustainable and responsible investment worldwide.
