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text:
It is after all an improper business model to earn profits by exploiting child psychology and stimulating vanity and the desire to gamble.
The Consumer Affairs Agency has decided to ban "kompu gacha" (complete gacha) online games played on mobile phones from July under the Law against Unjustifiable Premiums and Misleading Representations. This is a reasonable step.
The phrase "kompu gacha" combines "complete" and the name of the "gacha gacha" game arcade machine that sells capsules of toys. It is a kind of lottery game played on a social networking service website via mobile phones.
Players pay about 300 yen per drawing in a lottery in the game to win virtual items. If they combine items they win in a certain order, they can obtain rare items. The possessors of these rare items gain an advantage in playing games, thereby becoming the envy of other game players.
Items can be bought and sold among players, so it is possible to earn profits by selling them at high prices.
Games played on social networking service websites enthrall players by stimulating a sense of superiority and achievement as well as a desire to gamble.
If players draw in the lottery many times, they end up having to pay a huge amount of charges added to bills for mobile phone service.
It is not a problem if mature adults play online games because they can take responsibility for themselves. But it is problematic if children are caught up in such games. Consumer consulting offices have received one complaint after another from the guardians of children, including one case in which a middle school student was charged 400,000 yen for one month.
The Consumer Affairs Agency has decided to regulate kompu gacha after concluding it is a sales practice banned by the Law against Unjustifiable Premiums and Misleading Representations, as in the case of selling the cards of professional baseball players, which was extremely popular among boys between 1945 and 1955. But it is difficult to apply the law to quasi-gacha games, which differ slightly from the practice of collecting and trading in baseball cards.
In other mobile phone games, too, players are attracted by advertisements promising no fees "in principle." But players have to buy items if they want to take the games to a higher level. This framework is adopted in most of these games. They are no different from kompu gacha games in that children are tempted to pay a huge amount of money to play the games.
Six major mobile phone game operators, including GREE, Inc. and DeNA Co., have decided to abolish their kompu gacha games before the end of this month and study compiling self-restraint guidelines on all their social networking games.
Some measures must be taken to set the age limit for players of social mobile games. It will be also necessary to prevent virtual items earned through the games from being exchanged for money.
The social gaming market has grown by leaps and bounds, with annual sales now reaching 250 billion yen. If the market is to expand further, it will be necessary to restructure the business model for such games. Individual corporate visions and the industry-wide stance must be reviewed in this regard.
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 29, 2012)
Govt must establish strategy to develop seafloor resources
Abundant natural resources are sleeping under the seafloor in Japan's exclusive economic zone.
We think the government needs to play a leading role in devising measures to aggressively develop and effectively use them.
The government has started to review the Basic Plan on Ocean Policy, a set of guidelines for medium- and long-term ocean policies. It plans to formulate a new plan within the current fiscal year.
The commanding organ for the work is the Ocean Policy Headquarters, which consists of the prime minister and all other cabinet ministers. We hope the headquarters will strategically work on not only the problem of resources but also other topics, such as measures to assist remote islands and environmental protection.
High hopes for 'ice that burns'
We have high expectations for the development of methane hydrate, dubbed "the ice that burns," and other important resources. Methane hydrate, which contains abundant amounts of natural gas, is widely distributed under the seafloor.
With nuclear power facing an unclear future, it is important for the country to increase the amount of natural gas it can obtain in its own backyard, from the viewpoint of securing a variety of energy resources.
The government carried out drilling operations in the Pacific Ocean off the coasts of Aichi and Mie prefectures in February and March. The existence of a methane hydrate layer was confirmed after digging 200 to 300 meters down from the seafloor 1,000 meters beneath the water's surface.
It has been estimated this sea area alone has reserves of natural gas equal to more than 10 years worth of Japan's annual imports of liquefied natural gas.
Following the drilling operations, the world's first production test for extracting natural gas from methane hydrate in the seafloor will start in January next year. Taking into account the future production of natural gas from methane hydrate, Japan should also promote the development of the necessary equipment.
Meanwhile, seafloor hydrothermal deposits, which contain copper, zinc and rare minor metals, are also seen as a promising natural resource. The government has been conducting deep-sea research in two ocean areas: one in the sea around Okinawa and the other between the Izu Islands and the Ogasawara Islands.
Based on results of test drilling and investigations of methane hydrate and seafloor hydrothermal deposits, the government plans to make final judgments on whether to go ahead with commercial production of the resources in fiscal 2018. We expect a path to utilizing seafloor resources will open.
The fact that a seafloor area of about 310,000 square kilometers in the Pacific Ocean off Japan was newly recognized as part of the nation's continental shelf is a positive factor for the nation's ocean resource development. We believe active utilization of the continental shelf must be clearly positioned in the new basic plan.
To promote seafloor resource development in a stable manner, it is necessary to set certain rules.
Enforcement of the revised Mining Law in January enabled the government to take the lead in specifying candidate sites for extracting seafloor resources, such as oil and natural gas, and selecting developers.
The revised law also enables the government to control illegal exploration activities for resources, including those conducted by foreign vessels. Patrol operations by the Japan Coast Guard must of course be beefed up.
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 28, 2012)
Strengthen intl ties in Pacific to deal with China's assertiveness
Japan's efforts to support development of the island countries that dot the Pacific will surely enhance the stability of the region.
Bearing the rapidly growing assertiveness of China in mind, it is indispensable for Japan to beef up cooperation with the United States in tackling this task.
The Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM) in Nago, Okinawa Prefecture, with leaders of 12 island countries, including Palau, and one territory attending, wrapped up after finishing its two-day program on Friday and Saturday.
Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda, who chaired the meeting, said at a news conference after the close of the summit, "Both Japan and Pacific island countries are vulnerable to natural disasters, and we would like to share lessons of Japan's natural disasters [with them]." Noda stressed the importance of a joint declaration adopted in the latest PALM that puts top priority on antidisaster measures.
In the declaration, Japan promises to support improvement of an "early warning system for disasters" to help Pacific island countries prepare for earthquakes, tsunami and other natural calamities. Japan has also pledged to launch a "natural disaster risk insurance" program on a pilot basis to help Pacific island countries cover damage from natural disasters in cooperation with the World Bank.
Noda said at the news conference: "Japan's fiscal conditions are tight, as we need to reconstruct areas devastated by the [March 11] disaster. Even so, we should not be inward-looking but seek to be a country that will continue to contribute to peace and prosperity in the world." The prime minister expressed Japan's intention to offer up to 500 million dollars (about 40 billion yen) in official development assistance over the next three years for such endeavors. The figure is equivalent to the sum the country gave out in the previous three years combined.
PALM has been held every three years under Japan's sponsorship since 1997. The latest summit is the sixth.
The Japanese government's continued support for the island countries, successfully nurturing their confidence in this country, is a precious diplomatic asset.
Notably during the latest summit, a meeting was held between leaders of the island countries and Japan's business leaders, including executives of Japanese companies, to expedite private investment. The government, together with the private sector, should proceed with carefully considered diplomacy to assist Pacific island countries.
Also taken up in the latest PALM were issues involving the marine environment and marine resources development.
China, too, has been proactively practicing assistance diplomacy toward Pacific island countries. Beijing has surpassed Japan in terms of the amount of assistance cash, and is believed to place third on the list of donor countries after Australia and the United States.
In particular, China's assistance to such countries as Papua New Guinea and Fiji, which have abundant mineral and other natural resources, has been sharply increasing.
Fiji, which skipped the island countries summit this time, has seen its relations with the United States and Europe deteriorating recently. It may be inclined to deepen its ties with China.
Chinese leaders such as Premier Wen Jiabao and Vice President Xi Jinping have been making visits to these countries almost every year.
In addition to port calls to these countries by Chinese Navy warships and military assistance to them, the number of Chinese immigrants to Pacific island countries has reportedly been rising steadily. This may be part of China's strategic thinking.
This year, delegates from the United States took part in the triennial PALM event for the first time. The administration of President Barack Obama, with growing wariness toward Beijing, has shifted its diplomatic focus to the Asia-Pacific region and is building close relations with Pacific island countries.
The government should continue making efforts for stable development of the Pacific region by joining hands with the United States as well as Australia and New Zealand, which are PALM members.
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 27, 2012)
International patent strategy needed against China
Taking advantage of intellectual property rights such as patents and enhancing Japan's industrial competitiveness through them will be an engine for the nation's growth. In that sense, it is urgent to implement measures regarding China, which is becoming a superpower in terms of intellectual property.
A concern for Japan is the increase in patent applications in China.
China surpassed Japan in terms of the number of patent applications in 2010. China's total--about 530,000--became the world's largest last year, exceeding the about 510,000 applications in the United States.
The Chinese government has a plan to boost the annual number of applications for intellectual property rights, including patents and rights of industrial design, to 2.5 million in 2015, nearly twice the current figure.
Reflecting this government policy, Chinese companies are apparently changing their way of thinking and trying to acquire rights on their technology as soon as possible.
In contrast, the number of patent applications was only 340,000 in Japan last year, representing the sixth consecutive year of decline. Behind this might be the fact that Japanese companies apply for patents on only a carefully selected few of the technologies they develop.
Nonetheless, the number of patent applications is one index to show the fundamental strength of the economy and the stances of companies that place importance on technological innovation. The trend of decline in Japan should be stopped.
China a hotbed of piracy
Meanwhile, China is often called a hotbed of piracy, where illicit copying of technologies developed by other countries and trademarks is rampant and causes constant damage to rights holders.
It was learned last year that a Chinese company filed patent applications in the United States for technology used in the chassis of a high-speed railway car that allegedly copied Japanese technology.
The number of disputes on intellectual property rights between China and other countries is increasing.
Apple Inc., manufacturer of the iPad tablet computer, is involved in a dispute with a Chinese company that claims it obtained the iPad trademark right before Apple.
Japanese companies doing business in China need to revamp their strategy. While implementing every countermeasure at hand to deal with piracy, they should shore up defenses of their intellectual property by more actively filing international patent applications.
Meanwhile, the Japanese government must support Japanese firms in filing international patent applications by urging Beijing to take measures to prevent violations of intellectual property rights.
We praise the Patent Agency for beginning to consider granting design rights for icons displayed on screens of personal computers and smartphones.
The necessity to protect such design rights is growing quickly. If Japan is slow in taking action, Chinese companies and others may steal their rights.
In the United States, where the patent act was extensively revised last year, President Barack Obama's administration is placing more importance on protection of intellectual property rights. Intensifying competition with the United States will also force the Japanese government and companies to strengthen their countermeasures toward that country.
The government and private sectors should work together to enhance effective utilization of the nation's intellectual property rights.
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 26, 2012)
Set new, realistic target for greenhouse gas reductions
The government should immediately withdraw Japan's target of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent from 1990 levels by 2020.
This ill-advised target spelled out by former Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama at a U.N. meeting three years ago is totally unrealistic. Estimates released Wednesday by the Environment Ministry's Central Environment Council are obvious proof of this.
The council compiled the estimates in the wake of the crisis at Tokyo Electric Power Co.'s Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant. It calculated reduction rates in greenhouse gases in 2020 based on five different ratios of nuclear power in relation to the country's total power generation, from 0 percent to a maximum of 35 percent.
Nuclear power plants, which emit almost no carbon dioxide when they generate electricity, are an important energy source in terms of fighting global warming.
The estimates show Japan may be able to cut greenhouse gas emissions by a maximum of only 19 percent in 2020 from 1990 levels, even if the ratio of nuclear power generation is raised to 35 percent from the 26 percent level before the nuclear crisis and energy-saving policies are thoroughly implemented.
Currently, the country has no operating nuclear reactors and there are no prospects of them being restarted. Nuclear reactors must be reactivated soon to ensure a stable supply of electricity, but it can hardly be assumed that the ratio of nuclear power generation will be higher than before the nuclear crisis.
We can safely say that achieving the 25 percent reduction target will be difficult even if purchases of overseas emissions quotas and the absorption of greenhouse gases by forests in Japan are taken into account.
As the Kyoto Protocol will expire at the end of this year, a U.N. conference will enter full-scale discussions to formulate new rules with the aim of putting them into effect in 2020.
京都議定書は、今年いっぱいで期限切れとなり、今後、2020年発効を目指して、新ルール作りが国連の会議で本格化する。
If Japan continues to tout the 25 percent reduction, which has already become an empty promise, there is no doubt it will be cornered into a disadvantageous situation in negotiations to decide on a new international framework for cuts in greenhouse gas emissions.
空手形と化した「25%削減」を掲げたままでは、排出削減の新たな国際枠組みを決める交渉でも、日本が不利な状況に追い込まれるのは間違いない。
Japan's commitment to the 25 percent reduction was originally premised on building a fair framework with the participation of all major greenhouse gas emitters--including China and the United States, the world's two largest greenhouse producers--and reaching an agreement on ambitious targets.
そもそも日本が「25%削減」に取り組むにあたっては、2大排出国の中国、米国を含む「すべての主要排出国による公平な枠組みの構築」と「意欲的な目標の合意」が前提条件になっている。
Heavy burden looms
However, Japan could be forced to assume obligations for extremely high reductions, as the 25 percent figure has taken on a life of its own.
だが、数値だけが独り歩きしている現状では、日本は極めて高い削減義務を負わされかねない。
The government therefore needs to set a new, feasible target so it will not repeat the failure of the Kyoto Protocol, under which Japan shouldered unfair reduction obligations.
不公平な削減義務を負った京都議定書の失敗を繰り返さないためにも、実現可能な目標を再設定する必要がある。
The government plans to announce a new energy strategy this summer. It is essential to decide appropriate ratios for electricity generated by different power sources, including nuclear power, and map out a target for reducing greenhouse gas emissions based on these ratios.
政府は今夏、新たなエネルギー戦略を打ち出す方針だ。原発を含めた適切な電力の比率を決め、それに基づき、温室効果ガスの削減目標も策定することが肝要だ。
Curbing greenhouse gas emissions is important to achieving energy conservation, but an unduly strict reduction target would adversely affect production. Such a target also could hinder reconstruction from the Great East Japan Earthquake.
省エネを進めるうえで、排出削減は重要だが、厳しすぎる削減目標は、むしろ生産活動に悪影響を及ぼす。東日本大震災からの復興の足かせにもなりかねない。
We urge the government to set a target that will not dampen Japan's vitality.
日本の活力をそぐことのない目標設定が求められる。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 24, 2012)
(2012年5月24日01時32分 読売新聞)
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中比対立激化 尖閣諸島でも警戒が必要だ
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 25, 2012)
China-Philippine confrontation a warning for Senkakus
中比対立激化 尖閣諸島でも警戒が必要だ(5月24日付・読売社説)
A confrontation between China--which has been building up its military in recent years--and the Philippines is intensifying over marine interests in the South China Sea. We urge both countries to engage in dialogue to prevent the dispute from escalating into military conflict.
南シナ海の海洋権益を巡り、軍事力を膨張させる中国とフィリピンとの対立が先鋭化してきた。対話を通じ、武力衝突を回避してもらいたい。
The confrontation started April 10 when a Philippine Navy warship inspected Chinese fishing vessels at Scarborough Shoal, which is called Huangyan Island in China. Beijing immediately responded by sending patrol ships to the area, and a standoff between Chinese and Philippine vessels in the waters has continued for more than one month.
南シナ海のスカボロー礁(中国名・黄岩島)で4月10日、中国漁船がフィリピン海軍艦艇の立ち入り検査を受けたのを端緒に、中国が巡視船を派遣した。双方の艦船がにらみ合う状況が、もう1か月以上続いている。
Beijing and Manila both claim sovereignty over Scarborough Shoal.
スカボロー礁を巡っては、中比双方が領有権を主張している。
The Philippines has proposed that the territorial dispute be resolved through the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea. It also has strengthened military ties with the United States--which recently unveiled a new defense strategy that places greater emphasis on Asia--through such measures as conducting joint military exercises. This appears to be an attempt to counter the huge military pressure from China.
フィリピンは国際海洋法裁判所で領有権問題を解決するよう提案した。さらに、「アジア重視」の国防戦略を打ち出した米国と、合同軍事演習を行うなど軍事協力を緊密化した。中国の強大な軍事圧力に対抗するためだろう。
Beijing's overwhelming power
Beijing issued a strong warning against the recent moves by Manila: "The Chinese side has made all preparations to respond to any escalation of the situation by the Philippine side."
これに対し中国は、「フィリピン側による事態の拡大に対応するための様々な準備ができている」と、強い警告を発した。
China's naval might is far superior to that of the Philippines and other nations near China. China even has a plan to deploy its first aircraft carrier soon. We urge China to refrain from taking a hard-line stance on the standoff.
フィリピンなど周辺国に比べて中国の海軍力は圧倒的だ。近い将来、空母配備の計画まである。中国は強硬姿勢を自制すべきだ。
Overreactions to the dispute have already emerged in China--travel agencies have suspended tours to the Philippines, and the government has stepped up quarantine inspections on bananas grown in the Philippines. The government has justified these responses by citing an increase of anti-China protests in the Philippines and the detection of pests in bananas, but it is likely that Beijing is attempting to pressure Manila over the shoal dispute.
中国の旅行会社がフィリピン観光を中止し、中国政府が比産バナナに対する検疫強化にまで出たのは過剰な反応だ。フィリピン国内での反中デモの高まりやバナナの害虫を理由としているが、フィリピンを圧迫する狙いがあろう。
China's reaction has shades of its response to the collisions between a Chinese fishing boat and Japan Coast Guard patrol vessels near the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea in autumn 2010. After this incident, Beijing piled pressure on Tokyo by restricting exports of rare earth minerals to Japan, for instance.
一昨年秋、東シナ海の尖閣諸島沖で起きた中国漁船衝突事件の後、レアアース(希土類)の輸出規制などで対日圧力を強めた手法と似通っている。
Don't turn blind eye to dispute
Japan cannot afford to ignore the Scarborough Shoal dispute, as the nation faces similar friction with China, which claims sovereignty over the Senkaku Islands.
尖閣諸島に対し領有権を主張する中国との摩擦を抱える日本にとっても、人ごとではない。
Chinese fisheries surveillance vessels routinely sail around the Senkaku Islands to make their presence felt. China's strategy of using fishing boats and fisheries patrol vessels to give the irreversible impression that the area belongs to China is identical to what is happening in the South China Sea. Japan must not let the situation in the East China Sea deteriorate to what is going on in the South China Sea.
尖閣諸島周辺では、中国の漁業監視船の示威行動が常態化している。漁船と監視船を組み合わせた行動で「中国の海」の既成事実化を図る中国の作戦は、南シナ海と同じだ。日本は東シナ海の南シナ海化を警戒せねばならない。
Peace and stability in the South China Sea is not only crucial for nations in Southeast Asia. It also is in Japan's national interest to ensure that its sea lanes remain safe.
南シナ海の平和と安定は、東南アジア諸国にとって不可欠であるだけでなく、シーレーン(海上交通路)の安全確保という観点から日本の国益でもある。
The Japanese government plans to use official development assistance to provide the Philippines with patrol vessels for its coast guard. This will help the Philippines strengthen its maritime security, and also be important in making China pause to think.
日本は政府開発援助(ODA)を活用して、フィリピンに巡視船を供与する方針だ。フィリピンの海上警備の一助となるし、中国をけん制する上でも重要だろう。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 24, 2012)
(2012年5月24日01時31分 読売新聞)
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NATO会議 長期的アフガン支援が必要だ
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 24, 2012)
Long-term assistance key to achieving Afghan peace
NATO会議 長期的アフガン支援が必要だ(5月23日付・読売社説)
Leaders from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization ended their meeting in Chicago on Monday after affirming the deadline for troop withdrawal from Afghanistan and pledging to provide long-term assistance for the troubled country.
アフガニスタンからの撤収期限を確認し、同時にアフガンへの長期的な支援継続も約束した。
The Chicago Summit Declaration adopted at the meeting clearly states that the combat mission of the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) "will be concluded at the end of 2014" and the public safety forces of the Afghan government will start leading the combat missions in the middle of next year.
米国のシカゴで開かれた北大西洋条約機構(NATO)首脳会議が、そんな成果を上げて閉幕した。
採択されたシカゴ宣言は、国際治安支援部隊(ISAF)の戦闘任務は「2014年末に完了する」と明記し、来年半ば以降、アフガン政府の治安部隊が戦闘任務を主導する、とうたっている。
To make this possible, NATO must make greater efforts to bolster the training and equipment of the Afghan force.
それを可能にするよう、NATOは、アフガン部隊の訓練や装備強化に一層努めるべきである。
Despite the presentation of a deadline for the pullout of ISAF combat units, there is no sign of combat with the Taliban coming to an end. To realize the withdrawal as scheduled, improvement of public safety is needed more than anything else.
ISAF戦闘部隊の撤収期限は示されても、旧支配勢力タリバンとの戦闘が終わる気配はない。予定通り帰還するには、何より治安の改善が必要だ。
Transition to self-reliance
Last year, the ISAF began a full transfer of security control to the Afghan side. We urge Afghan forces to enhance their capabilities and become able to stand on their own feet as soon as possible.
ISAFは昨年からアフガン側へ治安権限の本格的な移譲を進めている。アフガン部隊の能力向上と早期自立が求められよう。
Given the protracted hostilities and the growing number of victims, public opinion has grown louder among NATO member nations for the early withdrawal of their troops from Afghanistan.
戦闘の長期化と犠牲者の増加に伴い、NATO各国では自国軍部隊の早期撤収を求める世論が強まっている。
French President Francois Hollande pledged during his election campaign to advance the pullout of his country's troops by one year to "by the end of this year." He reaffirmed this commitment during the NATO meeting.
オランド仏大統領は、選挙戦で、仏軍部隊の撤収を予定より1年前倒しして「年内」と公約し、首脳会議でも明言した。
But if France resorts to early withdrawal without taking into consideration the Afghan situation, there is concern other countries will follow suit. If NATO's solidarity is weakened by this, it will only embolden the Taliban.
だが、現地情勢を勘案しないまま早急な撤収に走れば、追随する国が出る恐れもある。NATOの結束が緩むことになって、タリバンを勢いづかせるだけだ。
Afghanistan should never again be a hotbed for international terrorist organizations. Cooperation in the international community is indispensable in this regard.
アフガンを再び国際テロ組織の温床に逆戻りさせてはならない。国際社会の連携が欠かせない。
The Taliban is deeply rooted in local tribal communities. Even if the country is brought under control militarily, it will not bring about real peace. The United States must continue exploring the possibility of holding dialogues with moderate elements of the Taliban, thereby laying the foundation for realizing national reconciliation in Afghanistan.
タリバンは、地元部族社会に深く根を張っている。軍事的に制圧できたとしても、真の平和は訪れまい。米国は引き続き、タリバン穏健派との対話を探る努力を続け、アフガンの国民融和実現へ、環境整備を図らねばならない。
Manifestation of political will
NATO has decided to provide strong long-term assistance even beyond 2014. This decision is significant as the manifestation of its political will to help stabilize the Afghan situation.
NATOは、15年以降も「強力かつ長期的な支援」を提供することを決めた。アフガンの安定を後押しする政治的意思を表明したものとして意義は大きい。
In his talks with NATO officials after the summit meeting, Foreign Minister Koichiro Gemba expressed the Japanese government's policy of continuing assistance for the Afghan security forces. He sought NATO's cooperation in achieving a successful result in the International Conference on Economic Assistance to Afghanistan to be held in Tokyo in July.
首脳会議後のNATOとの会合で、玄葉外相は、日本としてもアフガン治安部隊への支援を継続する方針を表明した。7月に東京で開くアフガン支援国際会議の成功に向け、協力も求めた。
The Democratic Party of Japan-led government has been implementing a pledge it made after its inauguration in 2009 to provide about 5 billion dollars (about 400 billion yen) in assistance to Afghanistan over five years from that year. It is necessary to examine whether the assistance has been provided effectively.
日本は、民主党政権になって、09年から5年間で約50億ドル(約4000億円)の支援を約束し、実施中だ。実効ある支援になっているのか、検証が必要である。
The government should call on the Afghan government, which is suspected to be riddled with corruption, to become more transparent in revealing how it utilizes the aid it receives.
汚職体質が問題視されるアフガン政府には、使途の透明性向上を求めていくべきだ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 23, 2012)
(2012年5月23日01時27分 読売新聞)
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電力全面自由化 効果と副作用を冷静に考えよ
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 23, 2012)
Think carefully before liberalizing power business
電力全面自由化 効果と副作用を冷静に考えよ(5月22日付・読売社説)
The intended effects and the possible side effects that would be brought about through full liberalization of the electricity retail business must be carefully considered.
電力小売りの全面自由化がもたらす効果と副作用を、慎重に見極める必要がある。
An expert panel of the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry has reached a broad agreement to liberalize the electricity retail business, including supplies to households.
経済産業省の専門家委員会が、家庭向けを含め電力小売りを全面的に自由化する方向で大筋一致した。
The liberalization plan is aimed at encouraging the participation of new companies in the business to increase competition and lower utility rates. The plan also calls for abolishing the current system under which utility charges are decided by adding certain levels of profits to the personnel and fuel costs of power companies.
電力事業への新規参入を促して競争原理を働かせ、電気料金を下げるのが狙いだろう。電力会社の人件費や燃料費に一定の利益を上乗せして電気料金を決める「総括原価方式」も撤廃する。
The government plans to submit a bill to the ordinary Diet session next year to revise the Electricity Business Law to fully liberalize the utility retail business as early as fiscal 2015.
政府は、来年の通常国会に電気事業法改正案を提出し、2015年度にも実現したい考えだ。
Behind this move is the government's and the public's distrust in power companies that have neglected necessary corporate efforts, while remaining dependent on the current system that allows them to monopolize their respective service areas.
背景には、「地域独占」に甘えて企業努力を怠ってきた電力会社への不信がある。
In connection with its plan to raise utility charges, an executive of Tokyo Electric Power Co. said, "It's our [vested] right to raise the rates." This insensitive statement drew harsh criticism.
東京電力の値上げ問題では、「値上げは権利だ」とする経営陣の無神経な発言が強い批判も招いた。
All power companies must realize that such a public outcry is the driving force behind the effort to liberalize utility rates.
厳しい世論が自由化への動きを後押ししていることを、電力各社は自覚すべきだ。
But what effect total liberalization will have remains to be seen. In the domestic electricity market, liberalization of retail sales to large-lot users began in 2000. Liberalization has been expanded to users with a contracted electricity volume of 50 kilowatts or more, including small and midsize factories.
ただし、全面自由化の効果は不透明だ。国内電力市場では2000年から、大口契約の小売り自由化が始まった。自由化対象は中小工場など契約電力50キロ・ワット以上の利用者まで広がった。
Few new participants
Under this system, users are allowed in principle to freely select their power suppliers and negotiate with power companies on rates. But the amount of electricity generated by new participants in the market is between 3 percent and 4 percent of the total. Existing power companies dominate the business in terms of capital and equipment.
発電事業者を自由に選べて、料金も交渉できる建前だが、実際には新規参入組の発電量は全体の3%台に過ぎない。既存の電力会社が資本や設備で圧倒的な存在である状況に変わりはない。
If the power retail business is fully liberalized while leaving a situation in which there is no real competition, we fear the monopoly the power companies enjoy will allow them to raise power charges at will.
実質的な競争のないまま電力小売りが全面自由化されれば、強大な電力会社が「規制なき独占」で野放しとなり、かえって値上げをしやすくなりはしないか。
It is not easy to realize a sound electricity market in which a variety of companies compete freely. To help encourage new participation in the market, a plan is emerging to reexamine the current system.
多様な事業者が競う健全な電力市場を実現するのは、容易なことではない。
The plan calls for establishing a nationwide independent organization to manage power transmission between power companies rather than have utilities undertake both generation and transmission of power.
新規参入を促すため、電力会社による発電・送電の一貫体制を改め、送電部門だけを担う独立機関を作る構想もある。
However, some people warn that if transmission is separated from power generation it will become difficult to supply electricity flexibly in response to changes in demand.
だが、発送電分離は、電力需要に応じたきめ細かな供給を難しくするマイナス面も指摘される。
Stable supplies vital
Major blackouts have occurred in Europe, the United States and South Korea partly due to the separation of power generation and transmission. The government must investigate these overseas cases thoroughly before deciding to separate generation from transmission.
実際に欧米や韓国では、発送電分離が一因とされる大停電が起きた。海外事例を十分検証し、導入の是非を判断すべきだ。
In the aftermath of the disaster at TEPCO's Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant, no nuclear reactors have been restarted, causing a power supply shortage. If the electricity retail business is liberalized at a time when there is a supply shortage, power rates are almost certain to soar. A stable power supply must be in place before liberalization is implemented.
東京電力福島第一原子力発電所の事故後、全国の原発は再稼働できず、電力不足に陥っている。供給不足の中で自由化すれば、電気料金は上がる可能性が高い。自由化よりも、電力安定供給の回復を優先させなければならない。
Another concern is whether liberalization will lead to supply cuts and rate spikes on remote islands and in depopulated areas, where power transmission costs are high. Calm discussions are needed before resorting to spur-of-the-moment liberalization.
送電コストの高い離島や過疎地への電力供給打ち切りや料金高騰も懸念される。一時のムードで全面自由化に走らず、冷静に議論することが求められよう。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 22, 2012)
(2012年5月22日01時20分 読売新聞)
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東京スカイツリー 世界一の塔が日本を元気に
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 22, 2012)
World's tallest tower will invigorate Japan
東京スカイツリー 世界一の塔が日本を元気に(5月21日付・読売社説)
At long last, Tokyo Skytree will officially open on Tuesday.
いよいよ、あす22日、「東京スカイツリー」がオープンする。
Its height is 634 meters, nearly double that of Tokyo Tower. It is the world's tallest freestanding broadcasting tower. Views from the two observation decks, at 350 meters and 450 meters above the ground, must surely take every visitor's breath away. We would like to celebrate the opening of a structure that Japan can boast about to the world.
高さ634メートル。東京タワーの2倍に近く、自立式電波塔では世界一となる。地上350メートルと450メートルの展望台から望む光景には、誰もが息をのむことだろう。世界に誇るべき建築物の開業を祝いたい。
While construction was still going on in March last year, the Great East Japan Earthquake rocked Tokyo Skytree, which had nearly attained its ultimate height. However, no workers were injured and there was no damage to the tower itself. Construction steadily continued, and the tree's height reached 634 meters a week later.
ツリー工事中の昨年3月、最高点に達する直前に、東日本大震災の激しい揺れに見舞われた。だが、作業員にもツリーにも被害はなく、建設は着々と続けられ、1週間後に634メートルに到達した。
Symbol of overcoming ordeals
The incident demonstrated the reliability of Japan's earthquake-resistant construction technology. It also reinforced the image in many minds of Japan and the Japanese not yielding to difficulties.
耐震建築技術の確かさを証明した出来事であると同時に、日本と日本人の、困難に屈しない姿を、そこに重ね見た人も多かったのではないか。
Just as many people remember Tokyo Tower as a symbol of the rapid economic growth period from the late 1950s to the early 1970s, so may Tokyo Skytree become a new symbol of the present period, when Japan and the Japanese are overcoming ordeals of the Great East Japan Earthquake.
高度成長期の象徴として記憶された東京タワーのように、スカイツリーは、東日本大震災の試練を乗り越えていく、新たな時代の象徴となろう。
Tokyo Skytree embodies the best of Japan's construction technologies from the past to the present.
過去から現在に至る、日本の建築技術の結晶でもある。
Materials made with cutting-edge technologies and fine techniques of craftsmanship, such as steel pipes that distort very little even if they are piled up sky-high, were chosen from all over the country in a strict selection process.
天高く組み上げてもほとんどゆがみのない鋼管など、最新鋭の技術と職人技によって作られた建材が、全国から厳選された。
As the tower was constructed on a relatively small piece of land, its cross-sectional shape changes from an equilateral triangle at the base to a circle higher up. Here, shapes called "sori" and "mukuri," seen in temple and shrine construction and the design of Japanese swords, were utilized.
限られた広さの敷地に建設するため、塔の横断面が足元の正三角形から、上に行くにつれて円形に変わる。そこに「反り」「むくり」といった、寺社建築や日本刀などの造形が生かされた。
The use of a "shimbashira" cylindrical central column to dampen earthquake vibrations is taken from the technique used in Japanese five-story pagodas.
中心に「心柱」を通すという、地震の揺れを減じるための構造も五重塔の技法に学んでいる。
It has been reported that those who were involved in the construction of the Skytree engaged in the work with a zeal to surpass their engineering forebears who constructed Tokyo Tower. Their own efforts are now destined to become a similar target for engineers in the future.
建設に携わった人たちは、東京タワーを作った先輩技術者を乗り越える意気込みで取り組んだという。その姿が今度は、未来の技術者の目標となるだろう。
Tokyo Skytree is scheduled to take over the role of transmitting TV and radio waves from Tokyo Tower as early as January next year.
テレビ電波などを発信する役目は、来年初めにも東京タワーから引き継ぐ予定だ。
Big economic effect
Annual visitors to Tokyo Skytree and its related facilities are expected to number 32 million. The ward office of Sumida Ward, Tokyo, where the tree is located, estimates the economic ripple effect of the facilities will be 88 billion yen in the ward alone.
ツリーと関連施設で年間3200万人の集客を見込む。地元・墨田区は経済波及効果を区内だけで880億円と試算している。
Around the Skytree, new tourism spots have arisen one after another, including the Tokyo Gate Bridge. We think many foreign sightseers will be attracted by the synergy of the Skytree and the other facilities.
周辺には東京ゲートブリッジなど、新たな観光スポットが相次いで誕生している。相乗効果によって、外国からの観光客を大勢呼び込めるのではないか。
However, although so many people are expected to visit Tokyo Skytree and its related facilities, infrastructure in the surrounding environment, such as sidewalks and train stations, has not been made fully ready for the opening.
ただ、これほどの人が集まる新施設に対して、歩道や駅など周辺整備が十分に追いついているとは言えない。
The Tokyo metropolitan government, the Sumida Ward Office and Tokyo Skytree officials should make every effort to prevent accidents and turmoil from occurring.
東京都と墨田区、施設関係者は、事故や混乱が起きぬよう万全を尽くしてもらいたい。
People's faces naturally turn upward when they approach the Skytree. We hope it will become a new strong base to invigorate the entire nation.
東京スカイツリーに近づく人たちの顔は、おのずと上を向く。日本全体を元気づける、新たな拠点になることを期待したい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 21, 2012)
(2012年5月21日01時52分 読売新聞)
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あす金環日食 天空のドラマを堪能したい
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 21, 2012)
Let's enjoy a rare astronomical spectacle!
あす金環日食 天空のドラマを堪能したい(5月20日付・読売社説)
An annular solar eclipse, a phenomenon in which the moon blocks out most of the sun, leaving a ring of light around its circumference, takes place on Monday morning, May 21. The annular eclipse will be visible along the Pacific side of the country, from southern Kyushu to the southeastern part of Fukushima Prefecture.
太陽の中心部が月に隠され、周囲が金の輪のように輝く金環日食が21日朝、九州南部から福島県南東部にかけての太平洋側で観測できる。
About two-thirds of the nation's population live in areas where the eclipse can be observed. It is said to be first time in 932 years--since the late Heian period (794-1192)--that such a large proportion of the population will be able to see an annular solar eclipse.
観測が可能な地域に、日本の人口の3分の2が住む。これほど広範囲で観測できるのは、平安時代以来932年ぶりという。
Another annular solar eclipse can be observed in Japan in 18 years, but the area from which it can be viewed will be limited to Hokkaido.
日本では18年後にも金環日食が観測できる。だが、北海道だけと範囲は狭い。
This time is definitely a precious opportunity to view a heavenly spectacle. Why not take advantage of a wonderful astronomical show?
天空のドラマを楽しむ貴重な機会だ。堪能したい。
The eclipse begins from the top right side of the sun at about 6 a.m., evolving into a perfect, golden "ring of fire," at about 7:30 a.m. This state of "annularity" will last a maximum of five minutes or so.
午前6時台から太陽の右上がかけ始め、同7時半ごろには、金色のリング状になる。この状態が最大5分間ほど続く。
Be careful of accident
The moment the edge of the moon overlaps that of the sun should not be missed. Sunlight appears to trickle out from the sun, creating gleaming beads, a phenomenon known as "Baily's beads."
月と太陽の端が重なる瞬間も見逃せない。すき間から太陽光が漏れ出し数珠状に輝く。「ベイリービーズ」と呼ばれる現象だ。
Viewing parties and other events related to the eclipse are scheduled in many parts of the country.
各地で観望会などが予定されている。
Given that the phenomenon occurs while people are commuting to school or workplaces, however, care must be taken not to fall while looking up at the sky while walking or cause an accident while driving.
だが、通勤通学の時間帯でもある。歩きながら空を見上げて転んだり、自動車運転中に事故を起こしたりするのは禁物だ。
Avoid observing the sun with the naked eye, which can harm your eyes. Injury of the retina can produce such symptoms as the appearance of black spots in your eyesight and distortion of objects.
太陽の直視も避けよう。目を痛めかねない。網膜が傷つくと視野の中に黒い斑点が見えたり、物がゆがんで見えたりする。
These symptoms usually disappear in about a week, but more long-lasting serious eye injuries can happen.
1週間程度で回復する例が多いが、時に症状が長期化するので要注意だ。
Special eclipse sunglasses have been on sale for some time. Viewers can also enjoy the phenomenon by way of what is called the pinhole method, observing the sun's images that are projected onto a surface through a small hole made in a piece of paper. Sunshine filtering through leaves can also cast an image of the eclipsed sun onto the ground.
観測専用めがねが販売されている。紙に小さな穴を開けて太陽光を通し、映し出された像を見るピンホール法もある。木漏れ日でも欠けた太陽が地面に映る。
The National Astronomical Observatory of Japan and other expert organizations have introduced various observation methods, which can serve as a useful reference.
国立天文台など専門機関がインターネットで観測法を紹介している。参考になるだろう。
The annular solar eclipse provides astronomical researchers with an excellent opportunity.
研究者にも絶好の機会だ。
A project has been undertaken to gauge the size of the sun more exactly by recording precisely the scope of the full "ring of fire," or annularity.
金環日食が見える範囲を精密に記録し、太陽の大きさを従来よりも正確に測定しようという研究プロジェクトも進められている。
Is Earth cooling?
The sun is an immensely huge lump of gases, and interaction between the gases yields the sun's energy.
太陽は巨大なガスの塊だ。このガスが反応しエネルギーが生まれる。
Determining the size of the sun more accurately would allow a more detailed understanding of solar energy generation.
大きさがもっと正確に分かれば、エネルギーが発生する仕組みを、より詳しく理解できよう。
Currently, the sun is a focus of attention of experts around the world because of an anomaly: It's activity has been at a low level last seen about 200 years ago, when Earth was in the midst of a cooling trend, according to researchers.
今、太陽は世界の専門家の関心の的でもある。異変が起きているためだ。約200年前、地球が寒冷化していた時代と似た、活動の低い状態にあるという。
In addition to findings in studies by researchers in many foreign countries, data obtained in space by Hinode, the Japanese solar observation satellite, point to a steady decline in the sun's activities. Do these observations indicate Earth is again heading for a cooling phase?
世界各国の研究に加え、日本の太陽観測衛星「ひので」が宇宙で得たデータも、太陽活動の一層の低下を示唆している。再び地球が寒冷化する兆候だろうか。
The importance of solar studies is taking on increasing importance.
太陽を研究する意義は増している。
Although the designed lifetime of Hinode has ended, no plan has been discussed by the government about the wisdom of developing a successor, while budgetary appropriations for sun-related studies have been trimmed continually.
ところが、すでに寿命を超えている「ひので」の後継機は、政府内で検討もされず、太陽関連の研究予算も減る一方だ。
The government must continue to extend a certain amount of financial support to this field of research.
政府は、この分野へ一定の支援を続けていくべきである。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 20, 2012)
(2012年5月20日01時39分 読売新聞)
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H2A成功 宇宙産業の地歩を築く一歩に
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 20, 2012)
Japan's space industry shoud build on H-2A rocket success
H2A成功 宇宙産業の地歩を築く一歩に(5月19日付・読売社説)
The 21st H-2A rocket was successfully launched Friday with four satellites aboard. One of them, from South Korea, was the first to be launched under a contract from overseas.
初めて海外から受注した韓国の衛星など4基を載せたH2Aロケット21号機が、打ち上げに成功した。
All four satellites entered their planned orbits.
いずれの衛星も予定軌道に乗った。
Everything went flawlessly and on schedule.
すべてスケジュール通りで、極めて順調だった。
One of the four, the Arirang-3 satellite developed by the Korea Aerospace Research Institute was the focus of special attention. The South Korean satellite is equipped with a high-resolution camera capable of photographing small objects on the ground.
注目された衛星は、韓国航空宇宙研究院の「アリラン3号」だ。高解像度のカメラを搭載し、地上を精密撮影できる。
The successful liftoff marked Japan's entry into the commercial launch business for non-Japanese payloads, a goal people involved in the nation's space development programs have longed for. The success should be used to broaden opportunities for the nation's commercial satellite launch business.
日本の宇宙関係者が悲願としてきた、海外衛星の打ち上げビジネスへの参入に一歩をしるした。成功を商機拡大につなげたい。
The success this time was the 15th consecutive successful launch of the H-2A rocket since the explosion of the sixth H-2A in 2003. The H-2A program's 95.2 percent success rate makes it comparable to the best in the world.
H2Aの打ち上げも、2003年の6号機失敗後、15回続けての成功となった。成功率95・2%は世界のトップクラスだ。
More extensive record needed
The European Ariane rocket, a formidable rival for Japan in the space business competition, also has a success rate of about 95 percent--but it is based on a more extensive record of about 200 successful launches. The H-2A's corresponding figure of 21 launches leaves it far from truly catching up with the world's best.
ただし、打ち上げ回数では、日本の強力なライバルである欧州のロケット「アリアン」が約200回に達している。成功率も約95%だ。21回のH2Aは、世界水準には、まだまだ遠い。
Under the circumstances, Japan's commercial launch business faces a thorny and arduous path.
それだけに、日本の打ち上げビジネスの前途は険しい。
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd., the H-2A rocket manufacturer, began to seek contracts to launch commercial satellites around 2007. The company has had more than 100 inquiries from potential clients, but only one, the South Korean entity, actually signed on.
H2Aを製造している三菱重工業は、07年ごろから打ち上げ契約獲得を目指してきた。打診は100件を超えるが、成約に至ったのは、今回の衛星以外にない。
Further business efforts are needed for such purposes as cutting back on launch costs.
打ち上げ費用を低減する取り組みを強化するなど、さらなる営業努力が必要だろう。
Explaining its choice of the H-2A rocket, South Korea cited the "inexpensiveness" of the latest launch.
韓国側は、打ち上げにH2Aを選択した理由として、費用の「安さ」を挙げている。
An H-2A launch usually costs about 10 billion yen. But the launch fee was reportedly reduced considerably due to the fact that the South Korean satellite blasted off together with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Shizuku, an observation satellite designed to scrutinize Earth's water environment.
H2Aの打ち上げには、通常100億円前後かかるが、韓国の衛星は、地球の水環境を詳細に観測する日本の宇宙航空研究開発機構の衛星「しずく」と相乗りのため料金が軽減されたという。
Further cuts in the production costs for the rocket are also essential.
ロケット製造コストの一層の削減も必要だ。
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has set the goal of halving costs through steps such as reviewing its procurement methods.
三菱重工業も部品調達の見直しなどで、将来の費用半減を目標に掲げている。
Launch new rocket R&D
The government must actively support the engagement of domestic industry in the rocket launching business.
政府も、産業界の取り組みを積極的に後押しすべきだろう。
By launching a variety of government satellites, including ones for Earth observation and telecommunications, one after another with H-2A rockets, the government could help enhance its appeal to potential clients.
地球観測や通信など様々な政府の衛星を、今後もH2Aで切れ目なく打ち上げることで、実績作りにも貢献する必要がある。
We believe now is the time to start studies in earnest about the development of a next-generation Japanese rocket to succeed the H-2A.
H2Aの次の国産ロケット開発についても、本格的に検討を始めるべきではないか。
Without a new research and development project, this country will eventually lose excellent rocket technicians. In fact, the technicians who were involved in the development of the H-2A project have already begun to retire.
新規の研究開発がなければ、優秀な技術者はいなくなる。H2Aに携わった技術陣はすでに引退し始めた。
In the United States, where rocket business start-ups have been set up at the initiative of private companies, launch costs are said to be about half those of the H-2A.
米国では、民間企業主導で、打ち上げ費用がH2Aの半額程度という安価なロケットも登場している。
Although they have made few commercial launches so far, the U.S. space business start-ups are likely to become strong new rivals for Japan's satellite launch business.
実績はまだ少ないが、新たなライバルになろう。
Given the situation, it is imperative for this country to bolster cooperation among the government, industry and academia to maintain and strengthen domestic rocket technology.
国産ロケット技術の維持、強化へ産官学の協力が重要だ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 19, 2012)
(2012年5月19日01時32分 読売新聞)
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GDP高成長 景気の本格回復につなげたい
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 19, 2012)
Devise effective strategy for robust economic recovery
GDP高成長 景気の本格回復につなげたい(5月18日付・読売社説)
The nation's economy has finally begun to recover on the back of robust consumer spending and reconstruction projects launched after the Great East Japan Earthquake.
堅調な個人消費と東日本大震災の復興事業をテコに、ようやく景気が回復してきた。
It is crucial that the government use this tailwind to put the Japanese economy on a solid growth track.
追い風を生かし、日本経済を確かな成長軌道に乗せることが重要だ。
Japan's real gross domestic product for the January-March quarter of 2012 grew 1 percent from the previous quarter, marking positive growth for three consecutive quarters. GDP grew at a high rate of 4.1 percent on an annual basis.
今年1~3月期の実質国内総生産(GDP)は前期比1・0%増と、3四半期連続のプラス成長になった。年率換算で4・1%という高い成長率である。
Consumer spending, which accounts for 60 percent of GDP, marked its fourth straight quarterly increase. This was largely due to a surge in new car sales after a subsidy program for purchases of environmentally friendly vehicles was reinstated late last year. Consumption on entertainment, including amusement parks, also was brisk.
GDPの6割を占める個人消費は、4四半期連続でプラスとなった。昨年末にエコカー補助金が復活し、新車販売が急増した影響が大きい。遊園地など娯楽関連の消費も順調だった。
More than one year has passed since the March 11, 2011, disaster. It seems consumer sentiment, which cooled due to a mood of self-restraint that enveloped the nation after the catastrophe, has started to pick up.
震災から1年たち、自粛ムードで冷えた消費者心理が好転してきたようだ。
Also, public investment increased for the first time in three quarters. We think it is safe to say that economic growth is being led by domestic demand.
公共投資も、3四半期ぶりに増加に転じた。内需主導の成長と言えるだろう。
Recovery at crucial stage
Implementation of the almost 20 trillion yen reconstruction budget will soon enter a crucial stage. The government expects the economy will continue to log positive growth in the April-June quarter, supported by demand created by reconstruction projects.
総額20兆円近い復興予算の執行は、これから本番を迎える。政府は4~6月期も復興需要を支えにプラス成長が続くと見ている。
However, the ability of public expenditures to prop up the economy is limited. There is concern that the economy could lose steam in summer and beyond.
ただし、財政支出による景気の押し上げ効果には限りがある。夏以降の息切れが心配だ。
The subsidy program for eco-friendly car purchases is scheduled to expire at the end of January next year, but its budget--which totals about 300 billion yen--could run out as early as this summer. If the subsidies end earlier than planned, car sales will inevitably drop sharply after the initial surge.
エコカー補助金の制度は来年1月末までだが、約3000億円の予算は夏ごろにも底をつく可能性がある。支給が早めに打ち切りになれば、自動車販売の反動減は避けられまい。
Reconstruction projects also will end up sitting idle if rebuilding plans for disaster-hit areas do not progress smoothly.
復興事業も、被災地の復興計画作りが順調に進まないと停滞を余儀なくされる。
A looming electricity shortage this summer also could put a brake on production and further accelerate the hollowing-out of domestic industries.
夏の電力不足が、生産にブレーキをかけ、産業空洞化を一段と加速させる恐れもある。
The government should steadily implement policies, including reconstruction support and the reactivation of idled nuclear reactors after confirming they are safe.
政府は、復興支援や安全を確認した原子力発電所の再稼働など、政策を着実に進めるべきだ。
Upward pressure on the yen has intensified as concern mounts that the European financial crisis may flare up again due to recent political turmoil in Greece. This could drag down Japan's exports, which had only just started to recover.
ギリシャの混迷で欧州危機再燃への懸念が広がり、円高圧力が強まっている。持ち直してきた輸出の足を引っ張りかねない。
The government and the Bank of Japan need to muster the resolve to intervene in foreign exchange markets and take additional monetary-easing measures--if necessary--to prevent the yen from appreciating excessively.
政府・日銀は過度な円高の阻止へ、為替介入や追加金融緩和も辞さない決意が必要だ。
Focus on quality not quantity
A strategy for growth led by private-sector demand must be accelerated while reconstruction projects and other measures are having an effect.
復興事業などの効果があるうちに、民需主導の成長戦略を加速させることが求められる。
The growth strategy mapped out under the administration of former Prime Minister Naoto Kan two years ago incorporated about 400 measures. A government check of how these measures had been implemented found less than 10 percent had produced favorable results. The Kan administration's growth strategy was merely an empty slogan.
菅前政権が2年前に策定した新成長戦略は、約400の施策が盛り込まれた。その実施状況を政府が点検したところ、成果が見られたのは1割弱にとどまった。全くの看板倒れである。
The Cabinet of Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda is discussing a strategy for Japan's revitalization at the government's Council on National Strategy and Policy, which comprises cabinet ministers and representatives from business circles.
野田内閣は閣僚や経済界の代表による国家戦略会議で、「日本再生戦略」を検討している。
We urge the government to formulate an effective strategy by carefully selecting policies, rather than including every scheme in a bid to try to please everyone.
総花的にならないよう政策を厳選し、効果的な内容に仕上げてもらいたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 18, 2012)
(2012年5月18日01時38分 読売新聞)
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混迷ギリシャ 独仏は協調し危機封じ込めを
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 18, 2012)
Hollande, Merkel should bridge gap to contain Greek crisis
混迷ギリシャ 独仏は協調し危機封じ込めを(5月17日付・読売社説)
The political turmoil in Greece has deepened after negotiations to form a coalition government fell apart following a general election in which no party secured a majority in parliament. A new election will take place next month.
ギリシャで、総選挙後の連立交渉が失敗して再選挙が決まり、混迷が深まっている。
The international community is now casting anxious eyes on whether the eurozone economies can unite anew to prevent the debt crisis from flaring up again on the continent.
危機再燃を防ぐため、改めて欧州の結束が問われよう。
Parties that oppose Greece's austerity measures, such as the Radical Left Coalition (Syriza), may significantly increase the number of their seats in the next general election scheduled for mid-June. Such a situation could severely hinder Greece from compiling the necessary support for further spending cuts, a precondition for receiving financial support from the European Union and the International Monetary Fund.
6月中旬に実施されるギリシャ再選挙では、急進左派連合など財政緊縮策に反対する勢力が大きく伸長する可能性がある。欧州連合(EU)などから支援を受ける前提となる歳出削減策の取りまとめが、頓挫しかねない事態だ。
After the collapse of the power-sharing talks, stock prices dropped across the board in global markets, including those in Europe, the United States and Japan, and the euro plunged. The markets' reactions reflect growing awareness that Greece's exit from the eurozone has become a real possibility.
欧米、日本など世界の株式市場の株価が全面安となり、ユーロが急落した。ギリシャのユーロ圏離脱が現実味を増したと市場が危機感を強めた影響と言える。
If the Greek crisis once again spills over to Spain and Italy, both of whom are rebuilding their finances, it would then spread to other eurozone economies and jeopardize the foundation of the European economy.
ギリシャ危機が、財政再建途上のスペインやイタリアなどに再び飛び火すれば、欧州経済は揺らぎ、危機が拡大する。
Exports from China and other emerging economies to Europe will inevitably slow down if the financial crisis in Europe worsens, which would have a huge impact on the global economy. Europe is China's biggest market.
欧州を最大の市場とする中国など新興国の輸出も鈍化し、世界経済に大打撃を与えるだろう。
Efforts to deter market fears
Newly elected French President Francois Hollande flew to Berlin shortly after taking office to hold talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel. The meeting was apparently meant to defuse market fears regarding the Greek crisis by emphasizing the willingness of the two countries to take the initiative in resolving it.
フランスのオランド新大統領が就任直後にベルリンへ飛び、メルケル独首相と会談した。独仏主導で危機対応に取り組む姿勢を改めてアピールし、市場の不安を打ち消す狙いがあったと見られる。
Hollande and Merkel stressed they want Greece to stay in the eurozone. Regarding growth strategy for Europe, which has become the focal point in dealing with the financial crisis, Merkel expressed her plan to prepare specific proposals with France by an EU summit meeting scheduled for late June.
両首脳は、「ギリシャがユーロ圏にとどまることを望む」と強調した。焦点の成長戦略について、メルケル首相は、6月下旬のEU首脳会議までに独仏共同の具体案をまとめる方針を表明した。
It is meaningful that the two leaders have agreed that Europe should not only focus on austerity measures, and acknowledged the necessity of a new growth strategy. We ask Germany and France to do their best to contain the financial crisis.
独仏両首脳が、欧州は財政緊縮一本やりでなく、新たな成長戦略を必要としている、との認識で一致した意義は大きい。危機封じ込めに全力を挙げてもらいたい。
Difference between 2 leaders
However, Merkel and Hollande differ fundamentally in their positions for dealing with the crisis, which could cast a shadow on their cooperation.
問題は、両首脳の考えに根本的な部分で隔たりがあることだ。
Hollande has demanded renegotiation of the EU's new budget discipline treaty--which was spearheaded by his predecessor, Nicolas Sarkozy--to include pro-growth elements in the pact. In domestic politics, Hollande has promised the French public to implement certain stimulus measures, such as hiring an additional 60,000 teachers.
オランド大統領は、サルコジ前大統領が推進した財政規律強化のためのEU新条約について、成長に関する項目を盛り込むよう再交渉を主張してきた。国内では、6万人の教員採用など、財政出動を伴う公約を打ち出している。
In contrast, Merkel has put her priority on fiscal discipline. She has not changed her position of rejecting renegotiation of the new treaty, which 25 EU members--all but Britain and the Czech Republic--have signed.
メルケル首相は、財政規律を重視する立場だ。英国とチェコを除くEU25か国が署名済みの新条約を、再交渉することはできないという姿勢を崩していない。
Will Europe be able to devote sufficient attention to growth strategy while maintaining budget discipline? Germany and France should accelerate their efforts to build a consensus on devising a specific growth strategy and on whether to renegotiate the budget discipline treaty.
財政規律を維持しつつ、成長戦略にどう目配りするのか。独仏は成長戦略の具体化や新条約の扱いを巡り合意形成を急ぐべきだ。
Europe's financial crisis is expected to top the agenda at a Group of Eight summit meeting scheduled for this weekend in the United States.
今週末、米国で開かれる主要8か国(G8)首脳会議は、欧州危機が主要議題となる。
Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda should ask Europe to settle the financial crisis as soon as possible. It is essential for Japan, which has yet to experience a full-fledged economic recovery, to prevent the excessive strength of the yen from becoming the status quo due to the turmoil in the Europe.
野田首相は、欧州に、危機の早期収束を重ねて求めるべきだ。本格的な景気回復が遅れている日本としては、欧州の混乱に伴う超円高の定着を防がねばならない。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 17, 2012)
(2012年5月17日01時10分 読売新聞)
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混迷ギリシャ 独仏は協調し危機封じ込めを
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 18, 2012)
Hollande, Merkel should bridge gap to contain Greek crisis
混迷ギリシャ 独仏は協調し危機封じ込めを(5月17日付・読売社説)
The political turmoil in Greece has deepened after negotiations to form a coalition government fell apart following a general election in which no party secured a majority in parliament. A new election will take place next month.
ギリシャで、総選挙後の連立交渉が失敗して再選挙が決まり、混迷が深まっている。
The international community is now casting anxious eyes on whether the eurozone economies can unite anew to prevent the debt crisis from flaring up again on the continent.
危機再燃を防ぐため、改めて欧州の結束が問われよう。
Parties that oppose Greece's austerity measures, such as the Radical Left Coalition (Syriza), may significantly increase the number of their seats in the next general election scheduled for mid-June. Such a situation could severely hinder Greece from compiling the necessary support for further spending cuts, a precondition for receiving financial support from the European Union and the International Monetary Fund.
6月中旬に実施されるギリシャ再選挙では、急進左派連合など財政緊縮策に反対する勢力が大きく伸長する可能性がある。欧州連合(EU)などから支援を受ける前提となる歳出削減策の取りまとめが、頓挫しかねない事態だ。
After the collapse of the power-sharing talks, stock prices dropped across the board in global markets, including those in Europe, the United States and Japan, and the euro plunged. The markets' reactions reflect growing awareness that Greece's exit from the eurozone has become a real possibility.
欧米、日本など世界の株式市場の株価が全面安となり、ユーロが急落した。ギリシャのユーロ圏離脱が現実味を増したと市場が危機感を強めた影響と言える。
If the Greek crisis once again spills over to Spain and Italy, both of whom are rebuilding their finances, it would then spread to other eurozone economies and jeopardize the foundation of the European economy.
ギリシャ危機が、財政再建途上のスペインやイタリアなどに再び飛び火すれば、欧州経済は揺らぎ、危機が拡大する。
Exports from China and other emerging economies to Europe will inevitably slow down if the financial crisis in Europe worsens, which would have a huge impact on the global economy. Europe is China's biggest market.
欧州を最大の市場とする中国など新興国の輸出も鈍化し、世界経済に大打撃を与えるだろう。
Efforts to deter market fears
Newly elected French President Francois Hollande flew to Berlin shortly after taking office to hold talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel. The meeting was apparently meant to defuse market fears regarding the Greek crisis by emphasizing the willingness of the two countries to take the initiative in resolving it.
フランスのオランド新大統領が就任直後にベルリンへ飛び、メルケル独首相と会談した。独仏主導で危機対応に取り組む姿勢を改めてアピールし、市場の不安を打ち消す狙いがあったと見られる。
Hollande and Merkel stressed they want Greece to stay in the eurozone. Regarding growth strategy for Europe, which has become the focal point in dealing with the financial crisis, Merkel expressed her plan to prepare specific proposals with France by an EU summit meeting scheduled for late June.
両首脳は、「ギリシャがユーロ圏にとどまることを望む」と強調した。焦点の成長戦略について、メルケル首相は、6月下旬のEU首脳会議までに独仏共同の具体案をまとめる方針を表明した。
It is meaningful that the two leaders have agreed that Europe should not only focus on austerity measures, and acknowledged the necessity of a new growth strategy. We ask Germany and France to do their best to contain the financial crisis.
独仏両首脳が、欧州は財政緊縮一本やりでなく、新たな成長戦略を必要としている、との認識で一致した意義は大きい。危機封じ込めに全力を挙げてもらいたい。
Difference between 2 leaders
However, Merkel and Hollande differ fundamentally in their positions for dealing with the crisis, which could cast a shadow on their cooperation.
問題は、両首脳の考えに根本的な部分で隔たりがあることだ。
Hollande has demanded renegotiation of the EU's new budget discipline treaty--which was spearheaded by his predecessor, Nicolas Sarkozy--to include pro-growth elements in the pact. In domestic politics, Hollande has promised the French public to implement certain stimulus measures, such as hiring an additional 60,000 teachers.
オランド大統領は、サルコジ前大統領が推進した財政規律強化のためのEU新条約について、成長に関する項目を盛り込むよう再交渉を主張してきた。国内では、6万人の教員採用など、財政出動を伴う公約を打ち出している。
In contrast, Merkel has put her priority on fiscal discipline. She has not changed her position of rejecting renegotiation of the new treaty, which 25 EU members--all but Britain and the Czech Republic--have signed.
メルケル首相は、財政規律を重視する立場だ。英国とチェコを除くEU25か国が署名済みの新条約を、再交渉することはできないという姿勢を崩していない。
Will Europe be able to devote sufficient attention to growth strategy while maintaining budget discipline? Germany and France should accelerate their efforts to build a consensus on devising a specific growth strategy and on whether to renegotiate the budget discipline treaty.
財政規律を維持しつつ、成長戦略にどう目配りするのか。独仏は成長戦略の具体化や新条約の扱いを巡り合意形成を急ぐべきだ。
Europe's financial crisis is expected to top the agenda at a Group of Eight summit meeting scheduled for this weekend in the United States.
今週末、米国で開かれる主要8か国(G8)首脳会議は、欧州危機が主要議題となる。
Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda should ask Europe to settle the financial crisis as soon as possible. It is essential for Japan, which has yet to experience a full-fledged economic recovery, to prevent the excessive strength of the yen from becoming the status quo due to the turmoil in the Europe.
野田首相は、欧州に、危機の早期収束を重ねて求めるべきだ。本格的な景気回復が遅れている日本としては、欧州の混乱に伴う超円高の定着を防がねばならない。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 17, 2012)
(2012年5月17日01時10分 読売新聞)
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温首相尖閣発言 「核心的利益」は穏やかでない
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 17, 2012)
Wen's 'core interests' remark over Senkakus a cause for concern
温首相尖閣発言 「核心的利益」は穏やかでない(5月16日付・読売社説)
China is reinforcing its hard-line stance over the Senkaku Islands in Okinawa Prefecture against a backdrop of swelling military strength and economic wealth.
沖縄県の尖閣諸島を巡り、膨張する軍事力と経済力を背景に中国の強硬姿勢が目立ってきた。
During a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda in Beijing on Sunday, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao reportedly mentioned the issues of the island chain, along with the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, where there is an ongoing separatist movement. Wen reportedly stressed that it is important for Japan to respect "China's core interests and major concerns."
北京で行われた日中首脳会談で温家宝首相は、分離独立運動が続く新疆ウイグル自治区とともに尖閣諸島に言及し、「中国の核心的利益と重大な関心事項を尊重するということが大事だ」と強調した。
China uses "core interests" to describe national sovereignty, maintenance of territorial integrity and other areas over which it will make no compromise at any price. Beijing has applied the expression to Taiwan, Tibet and the Uygur region before, but in recent years, it has reportedly used the term in regard to the South China Sea.
「核心的利益」とは中国が絶対に譲歩できない国家主権や領土保全などに用いる言葉だ。これまで台湾やチベット、ウイグルなどに使ってきたが、近年は南シナ海にも使用しているとされる。
The Chinese government has never officially used the expression for the Senkaku Islands. However, the People's Daily, the official newspaper of the Chinese Communist Party, used "core interests" in connection with the islands for the first time in January this year.
中国政府は、この表現を尖閣諸島に公式に使った例はない。だが、今年1月、共産党機関紙「人民日報」が、初めて使用した。
Semantic tactic
Wen is thought to have used "core interests" and "major concerns" together in referring to the Senkaku Islands so that his remark could be taken to mean the islets are part of China's core interests.
温首相の今回の発言は、「核心的利益」と「重大な関心事項」をひとくくりにすることで、尖閣諸島が「核心的利益」とも読み取れるように意図したものだろう。
In making the remark, the Chinese premier seems to have been thinking of the Chinese public's negative reaction to recent developments over the Senkakus--Tokyo Gov. Shintaro Ishihara's announcement that his government plans to purchase part of the islands and the Japanese government's decision to give names to four uninhabited islets of the chain.
尖閣諸島に関し、東京都の石原慎太郎知事の買い取り構想や日本政府による無人島命名に、中国国内で反発が広がった。そのことが念頭にあるようだ。
Wen's remark can be seen as a reflection of the Chinese government's increasingly assertive stance in claiming sovereignty over the Senkaku Islands as Beijing tries to expand its maritime interests.
海洋権益の拡大を図る中国政府が、従来以上に領有権を主張する方針を鮮明にしたと言える。
China demonstrates its presence by sending fishery patrol vessels to waters near the islands almost every month. Japan should further reinforce its surveillance arrangements for the nation's remote islands and territorial waters.
中国の監視船は毎月のように尖閣諸島周辺で示威行動に出ている。日本は離島と領海の監視体制を一段と強化する必要がある。
It is natural for Noda to remind Wen that the Senkaku Islands are part of Japan's sovereign territory and call for self-restraint on China's part, saying, "China's stepped-up activities [around the islands] are upsetting the Japanese public."
野田首相が温首相に、尖閣諸島が日本固有の領土であると主張し、「中国の活動の活発化が日本国民の感情を刺激している」と、自制を求めたのは当然である。
At the same time, it is regrettable that China refused Japan's request for a one-on-one meeting between Noda and Chinese President Hu Jintao. The rebuff was apparently a signal of China's dissatisfaction over not only the Senkaku issue, but also Japan's issuance of visas to Uygurs exiled from the autonomous region to attend an international assembly being held in Tokyo.
中国側の意向で、胡錦濤国家主席と野田首相との個別会談が見送られたのも問題だ。尖閣に加え、東京での国際会議に出席する亡命ウイグル人にビザを発給したことへの不満の表明とみられる。
Many pending issues
Japan and China, which mark the 40th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations this year, face a pile of pending issues.
国交正常化40周年を迎えた日中間に懸案は山積している。
Despite Japan's repeated requests, China has not agreed to resume negotiations on joint development of gas fields in the East China Sea since the 2010 collision of a Chinese trawler with Japan Coast Guard vessels off the Senkaku Islands.
東シナ海のガス田開発に関する交渉は一昨年の尖閣諸島沖の中国漁船衝突事件以来、日本の再三の要請にもかかわらず、開かれていない。
Also dubious was China's stance over North Korea's nuclear activities when the leaders of Japan, China and South Korea held summit talks Sunday. A joint declaration was initially scheduled to be released in tandem with the meeting, but it was not unveiled until the following day--and then it did not refer to North Korea at all.
北朝鮮の核問題でも、中国の対応には疑問が残った。日中韓首脳会談に合わせ発表される予定だった共同宣言は、1日遅れの発表となり、肝心の北朝鮮については一切言及しなかった。
The delay was reportedly caused by China, which seemed reluctant to produce a document that would urge North Korea to exercise the self-restraint not to carry out a new nuclear test or other provocative actions because it wanted to avoid angering Pyongyang.
北朝鮮を刺激したくない中国が、核実験などの自制を促す内容を盛り込むことに反対する姿勢を崩さなかったのが原因だ。
Considering such a stance, it is only natural to question whether China has a will to prevent North Korea from conducting a nuclear test.
これでは、中国に北朝鮮の核実験を阻止する意思があるのかと疑われても仕方あるまい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 16, 2012)
(2012年5月16日01時28分 読売新聞)
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沖縄復帰40年 経済と安保を両立させたい
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 16, 2012)
Okinawa economic development, national security both important
沖縄復帰40年 経済と安保を両立させたい(5月15日付・読売社説)
Okinawa Prefecture celebrates the 40th anniversary of its reversion to Japanese sovereignty on Tuesday.
沖縄県はきょう、本土復帰40周年を迎える。
An event to commemorate the anniversary in Ginowan will be attended by Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda and the heads of the other two branches of government, Okinawa Gov. Hirokazu Nakaima and others.
宜野湾市で、野田首相ら三権の長や仲井真弘多知事などが出席して記念式典が行われる。
The prefecture continues to bear the excessive burden of hosting 74 percent of U.S. military facilities in this country, measured by land area. Under such circumstances, the government is urged to find a way to achieve both economic development of the prefecture and effective national security.
日本全体の米軍施設用地の74%が集中する過重な負担が続く中、政府はいかに経済振興と安全保障を両立させるかが問われる。
The government last week decided on the basic policy for an Okinawa Prefecture economic development plan. The plan for the next decade, to begin this fiscal year, will be the fifth of its kind. A major pillar of the policy is to make the prefecture into an international distribution base through construction of a second runway at Naha Airport. The government aims to enable the prefecture to move toward self-supporting economic development. Based on the policy, the Okinawa prefectural government is to decide the details of the economic development plan on Tuesday.
政府は先週、今後10年間の第5次沖縄振興計画の基本方針を決定した。那覇空港の第2滑走路整備による国際物流拠点化が柱で、沖縄の自立的な経済発展を目指す内容だ。この方針に基づき、沖縄県がきょう振興計画を決定する。
Use development budget effectively
It is quite appropriate for the government to have changed the main entity to compile the plan from itself to the prefectural government. We hope the central and prefectural governments will steadily carry out projects in the plan to take full advantage of the geographical and international features of the prefecture, which is the closest part of Japan to many Asian countries.
計画の策定主体を政府から沖縄県に変更したのは、妥当である。アジアに近接する地理的特性や国際性を生かした計画を着実に実行に移してもらいたい。
Past development plans focused on "correction of disparities between the prefecture and other parts of the country." Despite those efforts, prefectural residents' incomes have remained around 70 percent of the national average. As the manufacturing industry can hardly grow there, manufacturers' contribution to gross prefectural product has fallen from 11 percent 40 years ago to 4 percent today.
過去の振興計画は「本土との格差是正」を掲げてきたが、県民1人当たりの所得は全国平均の7割前後にとどまる。製造業が育たず、県内総生産に占める割合は40年前の11%から4%に低下した。
The prefecture's economic structure stands on three main pillars: U.S. military bases, public works projects and tourism. Dependence on the central government's budget for the prefecture's development is also high.
基地、公共事業、観光に頼る「3K経済」の構造が続き、政府予算への依存度も高い。
The Democratic Party of Japan-led administration, partly as amends for having caused turmoil over the U.S. Marine Corps' Futenma Air Station relocation issue, has beefed up its Okinawa Prefecture development budget to a handsome 293.7 billion yen this fiscal year.
民主党政権は、米軍普天間飛行場移設問題を迷走させた負い目もあり、今年度の沖縄振興予算を2937億円へ大幅に増やした。
To use the funds effectively, it is essential for the prefectural government and each municipality in the prefecture to compile economic development measures based on medium and long-term outlooks and continue their self-help efforts.
これを有効に使うためには、沖縄県と各市町村が、中長期的展望に立った振興策を企画し、自助努力を続けることが大切だ。
The prefectural government will be able to utilize the central government's lump-sum grants with fewer usage restrictions. It can also shift the focus of the budget, previously on construction of tangible objects such as infrastructure and fancy public facilities, to intangible things such as environmental and welfare programs.
自由度の高い一括交付金を活用し、社会資本や箱物の整備などハード中心だった予算の使途を、環境、福祉などソフト重視に見直すことも求められよう。
Importance for national security
Recently, Chinese military and other ships have been regularly observed around the Senkaku Islands in Okinawa Prefecture and other areas. Taking into consideration the rapid reinforcement and modernization of the Chinese Navy and Air Force, the prefecture's geopolitical importance for national security will become far greater from now on.
最近は、中国の軍艦や政府船による尖閣諸島周辺などでの活動が恒常化している。中国海空軍の急速な増強と近代化を踏まえれば、今後、沖縄の安全保障面の地政学的重要性は一層大きくなる。
The government must squarely face this fact and firmly maintain the efficacy and deterrence value of the Japan-U.S. alliance based on defense cooperation between the Self-Defense Forces and the U.S. military.
政府は、この現実を直視し、自衛隊と米軍の防衛協力を基盤とする日米同盟の抑止力と実効性を堅持しなければならない。
At the same time, the government needs to do its best to reduce the prefecture's burden through such measures as facilitating the return of U.S. military facilities to Japan, which will follow the transfer of U.S. marines stationed in Okinawa Prefecture to bases overseas, and making operational improvements in the Japan-U.S. Status of Forces Agreement. It should also patiently work on the relocation of the functions of the Futenma Air Station to the Henoko district of Nago.
同時に、在沖縄海兵隊の海外移転に伴う米軍施設の返還や日米地位協定の運用改善など、地元負担の軽減に全力を挙げる必要がある。普天間飛行場の辺野古移設にも粘り強く取り組むべきだ。
Also important is to map out effective utilization of land to be vacated by the U.S. military.
重要なのは、米軍施設跡地の有効利用を図ることだ。
The government is now studying construction of an advanced cancer treatment facility in a residential district in Camp Foster, formerly called Camp Zukeran, stretching over Okinawa city and several other municipalities.
政府は、キャンプ瑞慶覧の住宅地区に最先端のがん治療施設を整備することを検討している。
It is indispensable for the government to gradually and steadily win the understanding of the prefecture and its residents toward the realignment of U.S. forces stationed in Japan.
こうした事業を通じて、在日米軍再編への地元の理解を地道に広げることが欠かせない。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 15, 2012)
(2012年5月15日01時45分 読売新聞)
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日中韓首脳会談 FTAと「北」で具体的成果を
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 15, 2012)
Japan, China, South Korea cooperation promising
日中韓首脳会談 FTAと「北」で具体的成果を(5月14日付・読売社説)
It is hoped that broad cooperation between Japan, China and South Korea will result in substantial progress on such key issues as the formation of a free trade zone and North Korea's nuclear development program.
日中韓3か国の幅広い協力を、自由貿易圏の形成や北朝鮮の核開発など重要課題における具体的な成果につなげたい。
Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda agreed with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and South Korean President Lee Myung Bak in their summit meeting in Beijing to launch negotiations on a three-way free trade agreement by the end of this year.
野田首相が北京で中国の温家宝首相、韓国の李明博大統領と会談し、日中韓の自由貿易協定(FTA)交渉を年内に開始することで合意した。
The three countries signed a three-party investment accord, which specifies the protection of intellectual property rights and other issues, a prerequisite for the envisaged FTA.
3か国は、FTAの前提となる、知的財産権の保護などを定めた日中韓の投資協定に署名した。
Because South Korea initially indicated its priority was on concluding an FTA with China, it was considered uncertain whether the three countries would be able to agree on starting negotiations for the three-way accord. Given this background, we welcome the latest agreement among the three leaders.
韓国が当初、中韓2国間のFTAを優先する姿勢を見せ、3か国の交渉入りが危ぶまれていただけに、今回の合意を歓迎したい。
It will be very significant if the three countries--which together account for about 20 percent of the global gross domestic product--form a free trade zone. In addition, it is vital for Japan's growth strategy to increase its trade with China and South Korea, countries that are rapidly boosting economic activities.
世界の国内総生産(GDP)の約2割を占める日中韓が自由貿易圏を作る意義は大きい。急速に経済を拡大させている中韓両国との貿易を活発化することは、日本の成長戦略にも欠かせない。
Japan still stuck at home
China became positive about forming a three-party FTA partly because Japan began full-fledged moves toward participating in negotiations for the Trans-Pacific Partnership framework, the establishment of which the United States, Australia and seven other countries are now negotiating.
中国が日韓とのFTAに前向きになった背景には、米豪など9か国が交渉中の環太平洋経済連携協定(TPP)への参加に日本が本格的に動き始めたことがある。
Yet, Japan is still unable to announce its participation in the TPP negotiations due to delayed coordination of different opinions at home. The later our country participates in the negotiations, the less room there will be for it to become involved in setting the rules of international trade within the framework.
だが、日本は国内調整の遅れから、TPP交渉参加を表明できないでいる。参加が遅れるほど、日本は国際貿易のルール作りに関与する余地が狭まってしまう。
In addition to taking part in the U.S.-led TPP negotiations as soon as possible, the government must proactively promote reforms and strengthen competitiveness of the domestic farming sector. We believe such efforts would favorably affect the establishment of an FTA between Japan, China and South Korea.
米国主導のTPP交渉に早期に参加するとともに、国内農業の改革と競争力強化に積極的に取り組む必要がある。それが日中韓FTAにも良い影響を与えよう。
The three leaders also agreed to beef up cooperation over North Korea's nuclear activities. Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda said it is important to prevent the country from resorting to further provocative actions, including a new nuclear test.
首脳会談では、北朝鮮の核問題について日中韓の連携を強化することで一致した。野田首相は「核実験を含む、さらなる挑発行為を防ぐことが重要だ」と語った。
To this end, it will be vital that Japan, the United States and South Korea, which are taking a hard line with North Korea, and China, which takes a conciliatory approach to the country, keep in step with each other.
肝心なのは、北朝鮮に厳しい日米韓などと、融和的な中国との足並みをそろえることだ。
Sanctions cranked up
North Korea launched a ballistic missile in mid-April. In response, the U.N. Security Council approved additional sanctions against the country on May 2, under which three more organizations related to Pyongyang, including a North Korean trading firm, were added to the list of entities subject to asset freezes their assets by U.N. members.
先月中旬に弾道ミサイルを発射した北朝鮮に対し、国連安全保障理事会は今月2日、北朝鮮の貿易会社など3団体を資産凍結の対象に加える制裁を決定した。
Though Japan, the United States, South Korea and others proposed adding about 40 organizations to the asset freeze list, the number was reduced to three due to China's objection.
日米韓などは約40団体の追加を提案したが、中国の反対で3団体にとどまった。
We regret to say that the latest sanctions are insufficient as a penalty against North Korea, which neglected calls from the international community not to go ahead with the ballistic missile launch.
国際社会の発射中止要求を無視した北朝鮮への懲罰として、十分とは言えない。
"This is the time to adopt more effective measures," President Lee said. To prevent a nuclear test by North Korea, it is important to step up pressure on Pyongyang to exercise self-restraint.
北朝鮮の核実験の阻止には、李大統領が「より効果的な方策を講じる時点に来ている」と指摘したように、北朝鮮に自制を促す圧力を強めることが重要だ。
As a country that has influence on North Korea through its food and energy assistance, China has a great responsibility and role to play in this respect.
食糧やエネルギー支援を通じて北朝鮮への一定の影響力を持つ中国の責任と役割は大きい。
China has so far maintained the stance of not provoking North Korea by any means. A change in Beijing's position would make cooperation between Japan, China and South Korea even more substantial.
とにかく北朝鮮を刺激しない、という従来の姿勢を中国が転換することが、日中韓協力をより実の伴うものに高めよう。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 14, 2012)
(2012年5月14日01時35分 読売新聞)
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外資の森林買収 水源地保全のルール作り急げ
タイでは外国人の土地購入は固く禁止されています。これが当り前ではないでしょうか。
江戸時代や明治の初期、娘を借金の肩代わりとして差し出す悪しき風習がありました。
国土を外国人に売り渡すことは、これと同じようなものではないでしょうか。
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 14, 2012)
Establish rules to protect watershed areas quickly
外資の森林買収 水源地保全のルール作り急げ (5月13日付・読売社説)
Foreign purchases of Japan's woodlands are on the rise.
外国資本による森林の買収が拡大している。
A total of 157 hectares of forest was acquired with foreign capital in 2011, almost four times the amount from a year earlier, according to data compiled by the Forestry Agency and the Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Ministry. The total from 2006 to 2011 reached as much as 785 hectares in seven prefectures, including Hokkaido, where nearly 90 percent of such purchases took place.
林野庁と国土交通省がまとめた2011年の買収実績は157ヘクタールで、前年の約4倍に増加した。06年からの累計は、7道県で785ヘクタールに及び、北海道が全体の9割以上を占めている。
However, a survey of prefectural governments by The Yomiuri Shimbun this spring found the total area purchased with foreign capital reached 1,100 hectares, greatly exceeding the government's figures.
読売新聞が今春、都道府県を対象に実施した調査では、買収面積は計1100ヘクタールに達し、政府の統計を大きく上回った。
As cases have been coming to light of Chinese companies acquiring land under the names of Japanese intermediary firms, the survey finding is probably just the tip of the iceberg.
中国企業などが、仲介する日本企業の名義で買収する事例も表面化しており、調査結果は「氷山の一角」に過ぎないだろう。
Worrisome is the fact that many of the acquired forested areas are in watersheds on which local communities depend. There have also been acquisitions of forested areas for purposes that are not clear. Should vital watershed areas be developed without restraint, the daily lives of local people could be threatened.
懸念されるのは、買収案件に地域の水源にかかる森林が多く含まれていることだ。利用目的がはっきりしないケースもある。水源地が乱開発される事態になれば、住民生活が脅かされかねない。
Even among those Western countries where land ownership by foreigners is permitted, a number of them restrict the ownership or development of areas near water sources.
外国人の土地保有を認める欧米でも、水源地周辺は所有や開発を規制している国が多い。
Keep an eagle eye on forests
The government must become more aware of land ownership and transactions, and discuss restrictions for protecting these areas.
政府は、水源地の売買や保有の実態を十分把握し、保全のために必要な規制を検討すべきである。
With its enforcement last month, the revised Forest Law makes it mandatory for transactions involving forest lots of less than one hectare to be reported to authorities upon acquisition. Previously, there was no reporting requirement for lots of that size.
4月に施行された改正森林法は、従来は対象外だった1ヘクタール未満の森林売買についても取得後の届け出義務を課した。
Although the enforcement of the revision is a step forward, it is hardly sufficient since authorities will learn of such purchases only after the deals are made.
一歩前進ではあるが、事後に取引を把握するため、十分とは言い難い。
With their own ordinances enforced in April, the prefectural governments of Hokkaido and Saitama have made it obligatory for land transactions around the headwaters of rivers to be reported to them in advance.
北海道と埼玉県は4月施行の条例で、水源周辺の土地取引には事前の届け出を義務付けた。
Four other prefectures, including Yamagata and Gunma, are considering the enactment of similar ordinances.
山形、群馬など4県も同様の条例制定を検討中という。
We approve of local governments proactively taking defensive measures. Upon learning of a questionable potential transaction involving land in a vital watershed, local governments may be able to take such countermeasures as acquiring the area themselves.
自治体が独自の防衛策に乗り出したのは評価できる。事前に動きを把握できれば、自治体の買い上げなど対抗策も可能になろう。
Yet under the Japanese legal system, land dealings themselves cannot be restricted, making it unclear whether such ordinances will be effective.
ただ、日本の法制度では、土地取引自体は規制できず、条例が有効かどうかは不透明だ。
At the same time, the role of foreign capital in revitalizing the local economy is significant. What is needed is a rule to ensure that forest land transactions the local governments cannot currently keep an eye on are brought to light, rather than one to merely inflame wariness against foreign capital to no purpose.
一方、外資の誘致が地域経済の活性化に果たす役割は、小さくない。外資への警戒感をいたずらにあおるのではなく、行政の目が届かない山林取引を放置しないようなルール作りが必要だ。
Controls must not go too far
Legal provisions are needed to define the lands to be protected, such as vital watershed areas, and to restrict trading in those areas specifically.
水源林など守るべき土地を明確化し、そこでは特例的に取引を規制する法整備が求められる。
The protection of the headwaters of rivers is an important issue for national security. Compared to local governments, however, the central government has less sense of crisis. Cooperative links among relevant ministries have not been formed.
水源林保全は国の安全保障上も重要な課題である。だが、自治体に比べ、政府の危機感は薄い。関係省庁の連携もできていない。
The ruling Democratic Party of Japan launched a working-group panel concerning land acquisition by foreigners in January last year and advocates a policy of studying the possibility of regulating foreign acquisition of areas near the headwaters of rivers or Self-Defense Forces facilities.
民主党は、外国人による土地取得に関する作業部会を昨年1月に発足させ、水源地や自衛隊関連施設の周辺などを対象に規制を検討する方針を掲げている。
We hope the government will more clearly recognize the importance of conservation of national land and exercise political leadership to take comprehensive measures to deal with the issue.
国土保全の重要性を認識し、政治主導で包括的な対策を講じてもらいたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 13, 2012)
(2012年5月13日01時44分 読売新聞)
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社説:プーチン新体制 関係深めて突破口探れ
May 11, 2012(Mainichi Japan)
Editorial: Japan should work with Russia to solve territorial dispute as Putin becomes president
社説:プーチン新体制 関係深めて突破口探れ
Japan should seek a breakthrough in its deadlocked territorial dispute with Russia by strengthening its relations with the new administration of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
(プーチン新政権との関係強化で行き詰まっている北方領土問題も解決して欲しい trans. by srachai )
Putin, former prime minister, has been sworn in as president again and appointed his predecessor Dmitry Medvedev as prime minister, whose role is to handle domestic affairs.
ロシアでプーチン前首相が4年ぶりに大統領に復帰し、メドベージェフ前大統領はその下で内政を取り仕切る首相に就任した。
In other words, the two swapped their positions, and Putin, who had been the second-in-command in the Russian government under the Constitution, has become the top leader again and is expected to show his strong leadership in governing the country.
2人が役どころをかえた形だが、これまで憲法上は「ナンバー2」だったプーチン氏が名実ともに国家指導者の座に返り咲き、ロシアの一層の国力強化に向けて強い主導権を発揮していくことになるだろう。
However, the second Putin administration, which follows his first administration from 2000 to 2008, faces a thorny path.
だが、00~08年に続く「第2次プーチン政権」の船出は波乱含みだ。
More than 20,000 citizens gathered for a demonstration in Moscow on May 6 to express their opposition to Putin's return to the presidency, and some of them clashed with police, leading to the arrests of over 400 people.
大統領就任式を前に6日、プーチン氏の復帰に反対するモスクワの抗議デモに2万人以上が集まり、一部が警官隊と衝突して400人以上が拘束された。
Massive demonstrations against Putin, which had continued since a lower house election in December last year, did not cause major confusion.
昨年12月の下院選後、今年3月の大統領選をはさんで続いてきた政権への大規模な抗議行動は、これまで大きな混乱はなかった。
This time, however, some participants went off the designated course during their demonstration march and security authorities suppressed them.
新体制の船出としては異例の事態といえる。
It is certain that such confusion and disturbance will continue to occur frequently unless the government changes its autocratic nature, which is represented by its lack of a system to respond to the public's dissatisfaction.
今回はデモ隊の一部が既定のコースを外れ、当局が力で抑え込みにかかった。
国民の不満をくみ上げる政治システムに欠ける強権的な政権の体質が変わらなければ、こうした混乱が今後も頻発するのは確実だ。
One cannot help but wonder whether Putin is serious about strengthening Russia's democracy as he pledged in his inaugural address.
プーチン氏は、就任あいさつで約束した「ロシアの民主主義の強化」に真剣に取り組むつもりなのか。
He should be aware that the international community as a whole is worried about Russia's democracy.
国際社会に懸念があることを自覚してもらいたい。
On the diplomatic front, concerns have been voiced over whether Putin will revive the hard line that he had adopted when he was president from 2000 and 2008.
外交政策でも、プーチン氏が前回の大統領時代にとった強硬路線の復活を懸念する声がある。
He has so far shown no sign of responding to U.S. President Barack Obama's proposal to launch negotiations toward further arms reductions.
オバマ米大統領からの一層の核軍縮へ向けた交渉開始の呼びかけには、今のところ応じる気配は見せておらず、
Moreover, he reportedly has no intention of attending the Group of Eight summit meeting to be held in the United States in May.
5月に米国で開かれる主要8カ国(G8)首脳会議にも出席しないという。
Putin is highly likely to make his diplomatic debut since he assumed the presidency again at a summit meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
大統領復帰の「外交デビュー」は6月初めに北京で開かれる上海協力機構の首脳会議になる可能性が高い。
In September, he will host a summit meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum to be held in Vladivostok, which will be the first such conference to be held in Russia.
9月には極東ウラジオストクで、ロシアで初めてのアジア太平洋経済協力会議(APEC)首脳会議を主催する。
These show that Putin places priority on strengthening Russia's relations with Asian countries.
当面はプーチン氏がアジアとの関係強化を優先課題と考えていることの表れといえる。
In the first presidential decree he issued following his inauguration, Putin cited the promotion of reciprocal cooperation with Japan as one of his key policies.
就任にあたって発出した大統領令の中では、日本との「互恵協力の発展」を基本路線の一つに掲げた。
However, Putin's inauguration as president has drawn mixed reactions in Japan, with some placing high expectations on his policy of attaching importance to Russia's ties with Asian countries and others warning against optimism because Moscow's demand for compromise from Japan over the bilateral territorial dispute remains unchanged.
日本では、プーチン氏のアジア重視路線に期待する声と、北方領土問題で日本に譲歩を迫る姿勢は変わらないとして期待を戒める声がある。
These two views appear to conflict with each other, but both are right.
この二つは一見矛盾するようだが、いずれも正しい。
Behind Putin's policy of attaching importance to Russia's ties with Asia is his hard-headed strategy of using Asia's economic dynamism, including Japan's advanced technology, to develop the country's Far Eastern region and modernize the country's economy.
日本の高度な技術力などアジアの経済活力を取り込み、シベリア・極東地域の発展と国家経済の近代化につなげたいプーチン氏の冷徹な国家戦略がアジア重視の背景にある。
Japan should position its diplomacy toward Russia, including its economic cooperation, as a pillar of its overall national strategy and deepen its relations with Russia's new administration in an effort to seek a breakthrough in the territorial dispute.
日本も、エネルギーなどの経済協力も含めた対露外交を大局的な国家戦略の中に位置づけ、ロシア新政権との関係を深める中から領土問題解決の突破口を探るべきだ。
毎日新聞 2012年05月11日 02時30分
Posted by srachai at 4:34 0 件のコメント:
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生活保護見直し 自立を促し不正許さぬ制度に
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 12, 2012)
Reform welfare system to help those helping themselves
生活保護見直し 自立を促し不正許さぬ制度に(5月11日付・読売社説)
As the economic situation continues to deteriorate, the number of people receiving welfare benefits has risen to almost 2.1 million. Reforming the welfare system to help people willing to work become self-reliant is an urgent task.
経済情勢の悪化を背景に、生活保護の受給者が増え続け、210万人に迫っている。働く意欲のある人の自立を助ける制度改革が急務である。
The Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry has presented to the Social Security Council a basic draft for discussions on reforming the welfare system. The ministry plans to flesh out welfare reform as a "livelihood support strategy" by autumn.
厚生労働省は、生活保護制度を改革するため、社会保障審議会に議論のたたき台を示した。秋までに「生活支援戦略」として具体化する。
One prominent feature of the plan is the proposed establishment of a "working income accumulation system." Under this system, a certain proportion of the income received by a welfare recipient would be accumulated and given in a lump sum when they get off welfare.
注目されるのは、新設を検討する「就労収入積立制度」だ。働いて得た収入の一定割合を積み立て、生活保護から脱した時にまとめて受け取る仕組みである。
One reason for ballooning welfare expenses has been the increase in welfare recipients in the prime of their working life. In recent years, many nonregular employees who are not enrolled in unemployment insurance immediately ended up relying on welfare benefits after losing their job.
生活保護の膨張の一因は、働き盛り世代の受給者の増加にある。近年は雇用保険に未加入の非正規労働者が、失業によって一気に生活保護に陥るケースが目立つ。
Although people want to get off welfare, it is difficult for many to find a job that pays well. The reality is that a worker's income gradually rises as their career progresses.
生活保護から抜け出したくても収入のよい仕事に就くのは容易ではない。徐々に収入を増やしていく、というのが現実だ。
Stamp out fraud
Under the current system, however, if welfare recipients work and earn income, the benefits they receive will in principle be cut by the amount they earned. Observers have pointed out that this system drains a recipient's will to get off welfare because they end up with the same amount of money regardless of whether they work or not.
ところが現行制度は原則として働いて収入を得ると、その分、生活保護の給付額がカットされる。働いても働かなくても同じでは、生活保護から脱却しようという意欲をそぐ、と指摘されていた。
Therefore, the working income accumulation system can be expected to have a positive effect in this regard. The money a worker accumulates will not result in a cut in their welfare benefits. Welfare recipients thus will be able to better prepare financially for the future and their will to work and become self-reliant will grow. Their income will increase and the government's welfare expenditures will fall.
それだけに、積立制度には効果が期待される。積み立て分は給付減額の対象とはならない。将来に備えることができ、就労、自立への意欲は高まろう。収入全体が増え、給付される公費も減る。
We suggest the government quickly settle the details of the envisaged system, including the percentage of income that will be accumulated, and promptly introduce it even on a trial basis.
どの程度の割合で積み立てるかなど細部の設計を急ぎ、試験的にでも速やかに実行してはどうか。
At the same time, it may be necessary to create more job opportunities for welfare recipients, including positions at public facilities.
併せて、公共施設の業務など就労機会を作ることも必要だろう。
Welfare benefits are expected to exceed 3.7 trillion yen this fiscal year. In the past five years, the amount has increased by as much as 1 trillion yen.
生活保護の給付総額は今年度、3兆7000億円を超える見通しだ。この5年間で、1兆円も膨らんでいる。
Welfare fraud must be thoroughly prevented to stop this figure from rising further. This is especially true for medical care benefits, which account for about half of total welfare benefit expenses.
これを抑制するためにも不正の防止は徹底すべきだ。特に、生活保護費の約半分を占める医療給付である。
LDP must lend a hand
Currently, people on welfare are exempted from paying medical expenses, and in many cases they receive more medical examinations than necessary. Also, there are unscrupulous medical institutions that earn medical treatment fees by examining mostly welfare recipients.
生活保護受給者は医療費の自己負担がなく、必要以上の診療を受けていることが少なくない。受給者ばかりを集め、診療報酬を稼ぐ悪質な医療機関も存在する。
The ministry is discussing strengthening measures to prevent fraud, including establishing a system in which another doctor will be asked to decide whether medical examinations are being conducted appropriately. Such steps will be essential for making welfare benefit expenses more transparent.
厚労省は、診療内容が適正かどうか別の医師にも判断を求める制度など、不正防止の強化策を検討中だ。生活保護費の透明性を高めるために不可欠である。
The main opposition Liberal Democratic Party, which is discussing a counterproposal for integrated reform of the social security and tax systems, also heavily favors boosting welfare recipients' self-reliance. The LDP has presented a policy of curbing benefits by placing greater emphasis on assistance for welfare recipients trying to stand on their own feet.
社会保障と税の一体改革で対案を検討中の自民党も、「自助」を重視する立場から、自立支援策に力点を置いて生活保護給付を抑制する方針を打ち出している。
A review of welfare benefit payments also is an important pillar of the integrated reform. The ruling and opposition parties should work together to advance welfare system reform from various angles.
生活保護の見直しも、一体改革の重要な柱である。与野党で力を合わせ、多角的に制度改革を進めるべきだ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 11, 2012)
(2012年5月11日01時28分 読売新聞)
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2009年の9月15日に脳梗塞を発症、右手が少し不自由になりました。
MRAで脳梗塞の部位を特定でき、素早い処置をとれたので大事に至りませんでした。
快復にむけてリハビリ中です。
(2011/01/01更新)
タイのスラチャイです。
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毎日毎日の地道な努力の積み重ねが必要です。
スラチャイはNHKのラジオ英語会話で現在の英語力を身につけました。
一日僅か15分の学習でも数年間継続すれば相当な学習効果が期待できます。
松井 清 (スラチャイ)
・準大手建設会社に就職
・50歳で会社を早期退職
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I've got stroke in last September, having slight difficulty to use my right hand. As I was luckey to recieve quick treatment including MRA scan, I manadged to escape the worst scenario in my life. Rehabilitation efforts are on the way.