AJBCC Statement on the Assassination of Shinzo Abe

MEDIA RELEASE: CEO AJBCC STATEMENT ON THE ASSASSINATION OF SHINZO ABE

On behalf of the Australia-Japan business community, the AJBCC wishes to express shock and sadness at the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Nara on 8 July.

Prime Minister Abe was a great supporter of the Australia-Japan relationship who was instrumental in both initiating the Japan-Australia Economic Partnership Agreement negotiations and in bringing them to a conclusion. As a friend and colleague of successive Australian Prime Ministers he also oversaw huge progress in all aspects of the bilateral political and strategic relationship, laying the foundations for the current, unparalleled, strength of Australia’s partnership with Japan on many fronts. As Japan’s longest standing Prime Minister he also contributed signally to regional and global governance.

The Australia-Japan business community stands with the people of Japan in mourning the untimely death of former Prime Minister Abe and condemning the senseless act of violence through which it came about. Such acts are totally unacceptable in any civilised society.

We extend our deep condolences and prayers to his family and to the people of Japan. May he rest in peace.

Richard Andrews
CEO, AJBCC

Inquiries: richard.andrews@ajbcc.com.au