PM Transcripts

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ACTING PRIME MINISTER
STATEMENT BY THE ACTING PRIME MINISTER, THE HON KIM BEAZLEY MP
RESIGNATION OF PRIME MINISTER MURAYAMA
Prime Minister Murayama, who announced his resignation earlier today,
made a major contribution to Japanese public life at an important time in
Japan's history.
He presided during a period of unprecedented change in the Japanese
political scene and of great 9conomic challenges for Japan.
He showed dignity and leadership in encouraging Japan to come to terms
with the country's wartime past, especially through his comments marking the
fiftieth anniversary of the end of the Second World War. Those comments
were appreciated in Australia and in the region.
His commitment to building a prosperous and stable future for the Asia-
Pacific region was underlined by his leadership in APEC, including as chair of
the most recent leaders' meeting in Osaka.
Prime Minister Murayama has also made a notable contribution to further
building Australia's unique partnership with Japan. The Joint Declaration on
the Australia-Japan Partnership by Prime Ministers Keating and Murayama
last May provided an enduring statement of both countries' commitment to
strengthening our bilateral ties, and to working together to promote
prosperity, and to enhance political cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.
The Australian Government appreciates Prime Minister Murayama's
contribution and looks forward to working closely with his successor.
MELBOURNE January 1996