Okinawa Minister Kono meets with Gov. Tamaki: “My role is to boost Okinawan economy”
Minister of State for Okinawa and Northern Territories Affairs Taro Kono (left) pose for a photograph with Okinawa Governor Denny Tamaki at the Okinawa Prefectural Office on September19.
September 19, 2020 Ryukyu Shimpo
On September19, Okinawa Governor Denny Tamaki and Taro Kono, who was recently appointed Minister of State for Okinawa and Northern Territories Affairs, met at the Okinawa Prefectural Office. The governor presented Minister Kono with a letter listing 19 requests for the prefecture. Items in the letter included: government funding for FY 2020 to boost the Okinawan economy, extending the Act on Special Measures for the Promotion and Development of Okinawa which expires in 2021, restoring the fire-ravaged Shurijo Castle, and abandoning the new military base construction plan in Henoko, Nago City. Kono asserted that Okinawa’s proximity to other Asian countries is its “greatest advantage,” and expressed his intention to raise income levels for Okinawans, which is currently the lowest in the country. He said, “I have been involved with Okinawa Prefecture in matters of diplomacy and defense. Going forward, my work will be to support Okinawa’s economy among other domestic affairs.”
Governor Tamaki said, “Okinawa possesses a unique history and geographical location. It took the prefecture 50 years to grow with the help of the Special Measures Act and economic aid from the central government. The seeds that were planted have finally sprouted, and it is beginning to flourish into a majestic tree. We have proven our potential.” The governor stressed that he will “continue to learn from mistakes and work hard to advance the open gateway to Asia.”
Minister Kono also met with Okinawa Prefectural Assembly Chair Noboru Akamine during his trip.
(English translation by T&CT and Monica Shingaki)
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