WGS 2017: Japanese Prime Minister Urges Governments to Harness Benefits of Diversity

Main address at summit highlights benefits of investing in education, innovation

Dubai-UAE: 13 February, 2017:  The Prime Minister of Japan, His Excellency Shinzo Abe, complimented the United Arab Emirates for organizing the World Government Summit - a defining platform for prominent leaders from around the globe to shape a road map for its future.

Speaking by video link on the first day of the fifth World Government Summit in Dubai, the Prime Minister explained that diversity is key to the creation of new ideas and to fostering innovation.

His Excellency Shinzo Abe said: “As the world becomes more culturally diverse, it is critical that we understand how these traditions will coexist in the future. It is critical that governments use this diversity as a pillar to enable economic growth based on innovation.” 

The Middle East is a perfect example, given that it has been home to many cultures and religions since ancient times. He said: “When I visited Dubai in 2013, I was impressed by the way in which various peoples from different parts of the world coexist. Furthermore, I commend the creation of the Ministry of Happiness because it demonstrates that happiness is indeed the responsibility of governments.”

He added: “In 2020, Japan will host both the Olympics and Paralympics while the UAE will host the World Exposition. This will give both countries an international stage to demonstrate the benefits of societies living together in a spirit of tolerance.” 

Also speaking at the summit, Kentaro Sonoura, Senior Vice Foreign Minister of Japan expressed his deep respect for the UAE’s tolerance and diversity-building efforts. He said: “Your commitment to the environment, public health, human development and good governance are benchmarks for governments around the world. In addition, your investments in education and innovation will ensure a brighter tomorrow.”

The Minister also spoke of Japan’s experience with education and highlighted the benefits of the unique Japanese educational system, which incorporates self-discipline and mutual cooperation while encouraging the development of courage justice, and loyalty.

He added: “I am convinced that the Japanese government’s investment in education is one of the reasons for the rapid economic recovery that took place after the Second World War. Today our highest priority continues to be education for all citizens so that everyone can realize their dreams.”

Kenatro Sonoura also cautioned that self-discipline on its own does not encourage students to study, therefore education systems must stimulate curiosity.
He said: “The role of government is to invest in people’s future by promoting education and innovation. Governments must invest in new tech and create regulatory reforms to pave the way for greater success.”

The World Government Summit (WGS) 2017 has drawn the participation of more than 4,000 personalities from 139 countries around the world, reflecting the leading stature of the summit on regional and international levels and the high interest from governments, global organizations, private and public sector entities, decision makers, entrepreneurs, academics and university students as well as scientists and innovators. WGS 2017 features 150 speakers across 114 sessions that highlight the world’s most pressing challenges and showcase best practices and cutting-edge solutions to deal with them.