PM Transcripts

PRIME MINISTER
FOR MEDIA TUESDAY, 19 AUGUST 180
MR. OHIRA
Mr. Speaker, it is with deep regret that I also inform the House
of the death, on 12 June, 1980, of the Prime Minister of Japan,
Mr. Masayoshi Ohira and I move: " That this House records its
sincere regret at the death of Mr. Masayoshi Ohira, Prime-Minister.
of Japan, and express its deepest sympathy to his family and
to the people of Japan."
Mr. Speaker, the House will wish to be advised formally that the
Government extended its deep sympathy to the Government and people
of Japan, and that I represented Australia at Mr. Ohira's
memorial service.
Mr. Masayoshi Ohira led the Japanese Government at a time when
changing international circumstances presented the Japanese
nation with considerable uncertainties. A wisdom born of
wide experience coupled with a deep personal commitment to
the shaping of a better world for future generations-, earned
Mr. Ohira great international esteem. His wise advice and
considered counsel gained him the respect of leaders around
the world.
Mr. Ohira recognised the important role which Japan-has to play
in international affairs as a member of the Western alliance.
He was concerned to enhance Japan's political and economic
contribution to world peace and security. His understanding of
the changing circumstances in Asia and the Pacific led Mr. Ohira
to play an active part in seeking closer ties between the
countries of the region.
His promotion of the concept of a Pacific community is an
outstanding example of this. In January this year Mr. Ohira visited
Australia. He was welcomed both as a representative of one of the
countries most important to Australia, and as a national leader
who strove to increase understanding and personal contact between
the peoples of different countries. I believe that his visit
made a lasting contribution to the strengthening of relations
between our two countries. We all mourn his death.
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