JAPANESE PM JUNICHIRO KOIZUMI DELIVERS POLICY SPEECH TO THE DIET.

(From Asia Pulse)

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TOKYO, Jan. 19 /KYODO JBN-AsiaNet/--

On January 19, 2004, the 159th Session of the Diet was convened and Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi delivered a general policy speech. In his speech, Prime Minister Koizumi said with resolve, "Firmly maintaining the policy that has been followed to date of "without structural reform there will be no rebirth or growth in Japan," I will continue to promote reforms with firm resolve. I am now seeking to realize a country where the buds of reform are nurtured into a large tree." In closing his address, Prime Minister Koizumi said, quoting the Preamble to the Constitution of Japan, "Merely arguing is not enough to realize peace. Peace is something that …