Statement by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi
at the Ceremony Commemorating
the 150th Anniversary of Japan-US Relationship

Good Morning.
Spring is blossoming. Spring is glowing. Today in glorious weather, together with Ambassador Baker and other guest both from Japan and the U.S., I am delighted to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Japan-US relationship.

Japan and the United States have nurtured our friendship for the last 150 years since the Treaty of Peace and Amity between Japan and the United States was signed here in Yokohama in 1854. Along the way, we have experienced some difficult times. However, it was all the more by overcoming those difficulties that the friendship between our countries has grown truly strong.

Japan and the United States have become partners cooperating in the global context. Our alliance, in addition to ensuring Japan's security, is the basis for regional stability and prosperity in Asia and the Pacific. Together, we are fighting terrorism, countering the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and cooperating as the two largest providers of development assistance to achieve long-term stability and prosperity in the world. The cooperative relationship between our countries is profound and strong, as seen in the important role played by Japan and the United States toward the reconstruction of Afghanistan and Iraq, and our close cooperation toward a comprehensive and peaceful solution to the North Korean issues.

Today, our relationship spans all areas of society and culture, let alone the political and economic spheres. Who could have imagined 150 years ago that an American would become a grand champion in Japan's national sport of sumo wrestling, and that a Japanese would become a leading hitter in America's major league baseball? Today, around four million Japanese and over seven hundred thousand Americans cross the Pacific each year, serving to reinforce our ties. Continuous exchanges among individuals in all walks of life lie at the base of our friendship and trust. The Government of Japan has set an objective to double the number of foreign visitors and foreign direct investment in Japan. I hope that this policy will elevate the relationship between our countries to a new level.

Japanese and Americans have different historical and cultural backgrounds. Yet, our friendship is as solid as it is because our countries share fundamental values like freedom, democracy and free market economy. In my view, we are a prime example to the world that people of different races and beliefs can share the same values and be true friends.

Japan and the United States have come a long way in building the bond of friendship that we enjoy today. I would like to end my remarks today, by expressing my hope that we bring about a bright future for the people of our two countries and of entire world, through further advancement of our bilateral relationship.