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Thursday, 27th December 2012
In General Japan News,
New Cabinet sworn in as Abe pledges to end economic slump
New prime minister Shinzo Abe has revealed that ending Japan's economic slump will be his government's main priority as his new Cabinet members were sworn in.
Mr Abe has wasted no time in forming his Cabinet after becoming Japan's seventh prime minister in six years on Wednesday (December 26th).
During his first news conference, he told reporters that he had woken up "with a fresh feeling".
"By drawing on my experience of heading a government, I'd like to run my new government in a stable manner," he said, referring to his previous short-lived spell as prime minister between September 2006 and August 2007.
"A country that gives up on economic growth will have no future. We will make decisions and implement accurate policies to achieve that growth, aiming for a bright future together with the people."
Mr Abe has focused on experience and ability with his new Cabinet, giving the post of finance minister - and deputy prime minister - to 72-year-old former PM Taro Aso.
Akira Amari, 63, now holds the new post of economic revitalisation minister, underlining Mr Abe's determination to fuel economic growth.
Other Cabinet members include 57-year-old Toshimitsu Motegi as economy, trade and industry minister; 64-year-old Yoshihide Suga as chief Cabinet secretary; and 55-year-old Fumio Kishida as foreign minister.
Written by Susan Ballion
Inside Japan UK office
Inside Japan US office
Inside Japan Australia office
Inside Japan - Japan office
