Chairman's message

Ten days have passed since the Tohoku-Pacific Ocean Earthquake. Numerous people are still missing in stricken areas, and in some locations there are not enough relief goods to go around. Once again, I would like to offer my heartfelt sympathies to everyone afflicted by the disaster and extend my assurances that Kansai will make our utmost efforts.

Daily news drives home the enormity of the damage suffered by the Tohoku and Kanto districts. Long-term disruptions to economic activities are feared not just in areas directly hit by the disaster but also throughout all of eastern Japan. Such a scenario could have repercussions far beyond Japan too, affecting countries in Asia and elsewhere around the world. As never before, those of us in Kansai must take the initiative and act boldly, with the determination to contribute to Japan's recovery and sustainable growth in this time of national crisis.

To get through this difficult time together, Kankeiren has asked our members to commit more efforts than ever into economic activities, to join in assisting eastern Japan, and thereby support Japan as a whole.