The lives and occupations of peninsular region residents support our everyday lives, and the sightseeing and exchange opportunities they provide are indispensable elements in realizing Japan's ambition to become a leading tourism nation. However, at the same time, a population shift to the major urban areas continues. At present, in many peninsular regions, autonomous initiatives are underway, but there is a need to promote their sustainable development through appropriate measures and by campaigns to widely inform the general public of the value of peninsular regions. I am sure that everyone has heard of the Kii Peninsula and Oshima Peninsula, and of course many people have visited or reside there. I would like here to briefly introduce current conditions on peninsulas and the challenges they face, especially in regard to the ocean.

Countries around the world are engaged in fierce competition to develop technologies for and put into practice the various forms of renewable marine energy. Considering its high economic potential, Japan should mobilize not only solar power, but all forms of renewable energy. It should make full-scale use especially of its vast EEZ to increase its international competitiveness and, as part of its growth strategy, increase employment opportunities. To accomplish this, it needs to recognize marine renewable energy as one of the "new energies Eunder a committed national strategy.

During Japan's period of high economic growth, landfill of Tokyo Bay proceeded until, in the Koto district, heavy chemical industry in the area caused the loss of all greenery along the shoreline. Now, however, the movement for greening of urban areas has strengthened and the percentage of re-foliated areas has gradually increased. In springtime in the downtown area of Fukagawa, the O-Edo Fukagawa Cherry Blossom Festival is now held, and shoreline sightseeing with a variety of boat types is gaining new appreciation. Japan is not only about manufacturing. Through O-Edo tourism I hope to watch carefully how the future of the country unfolds.