Economic ministers said Tuesday they understood U.S. President George W. Bush had issued "tacit" calls for Japan to revive its economy during his summit with Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi.
Finance Minister Masajuro Shiokawa told a news conference that Bush gave Koizumi a "tacit warning" on Japan's economic woes, "while expressing confidence" in his ability to rehabilitate the economy.
Financial Services Minister Hakuo Yanagisawa said he feels increased responsibility for resolving the bad-loan woes plaguing the economy, as Koizumi told Bush in their meeting Monday he will continue firmly with structural reforms.