June 7, 2010
Following is the gist of remarks made by Chairman Yonekura at his Press Conference. Translation is rush and tentative, and sequence of the gist does not necessarily coincide with words delivered.
Current situation and future perspectives of the Japanese economy
Real GDP growth rate of the first quarter marked 4.9% with a growth of export and production. The Japanese economy marked four consecutive quarters growth but is yet to be on a self-sustaining recovery due to severe employment and income situations.
Concerns over lowering stock prices, financial turbulence triggered by the Greek financial crisis and weakening Euro, are remaining negative factors that can affect the Japanese economy.
New cabinet and DPJ executives
Japan faces a host of difficulties. The new cabinet has no time to lose to solve these challenges. I commend Prime Minister Naoto Kan for demonstrating political will. He has expressed enthusiasm about realising the "strong economy, strong public finances and strong social security".