As coastal nations, Japan and the United States share a deep and abiding respect for the beauty, the bounty, and the power of the oceans. Our countries understand the interdependence of healthy oceans and healthy communities and economies. In addition to overfishing, global climate change presents a major threat to our coasts and oceans. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is developing climate information, tools, and services that enhance society's ability to prepare for change. Creative solutions, public awareness, and strong international partnerships will be required to ensure the harmony of the ocean environment for generations to come.

While the Secretariat of the Headquarters for Ocean Policy has worked to implement the 1st Basic Plan on Ocean Policy adopted in March of 2008, review of the plan will take place in 2012. The Secretariat has already begun the groundwork of determining progress in the current Basic Plan, as well as assessing new needs, and will now undertake work towards the setting of the new Basic Plan based on future policy developments.
Selected Papers No.16(p.8)

There is great resource potential on the ocean floor of Japan's 200nm Exclusive Economic Zone. It is important to develop these promising resources, a kind of great natural gift, to contribute to the economy of our nation. It is my hope that promotion of this development will be executed not only by the ocean industry but also by other related industries, including the mining industry, working together with a wide range of academic and research organizations for the good of the whole country.
Selected Papers No.16(p.10)