Abe Aims to Declare Japan's Exit from Deflation Early

Tokyo, Jan. 7 (Jiji Press)--Prime Minister Shinzo Abe vowed Wednesday to declare the Japanese economy's exit from deflation at an early date toward its revival, in a speech at a New Year party hosted by Jiji Press. Abe said he felt that business leaders have shown positive responses to a request to raise wages that he made in a meeting on Tuesday with the three major business groups in Japan. Under these circumstances, "Japan will be able to announce that its economy is no longer in deflation," the prime minister said. There are many things to do on government administration, he said, adding that he would make policy decisions humbly and carefully, but decisively when needed. "By rebuilding the economy and restoring a strong economy, Japan will be able to make a comeback as a country contributing to the world," Abe said, seeking support for his policy of putting priority on the economy. With the leadership election of the major opposition Democratic Part of Japan due on Jan. 18, Abe said he hopes that the DPJ will choose a new strong leader and he hopes for a friendly rivalry with the new DPJ head. Also at the party, House of Representatives Speaker Nobutaka Machimura said he believes that what the public wants from politics is speedy decision-making. END