The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 30, 2012) Social networking games must be responsible 携帯ゲーム規制 健全性を重視したビジネスに（5月29日付・読売社説）
It is after all an improper business model to earn profits by exploiting child psychology and stimulating vanity and the desire to gamble. 子供の心理につけこんだり、射幸心や虚栄心をあおったりして利益を上げるビジネスモデルは、やはりおかしい。
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. 消費者庁は、携帯電話で遊ぶ「コンプガチャ」と呼ばれるゲーム商法を、７月から、景品表示法で禁止することを決めた。妥当な措置である。
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. コンプガチャは、おもちゃのカプセルを売る機械「ガチャガチャ」とコンプリート（そろえる）という単語を合わせた呼び名で、携帯電話を通じて利用者が集う「ソーシャルゲーム」の中で行われるくじのようなものだ。
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. ゲームの中で１回３００円ほどのくじを引き、当たったアイテム（品物）が一定の組み合わせでそろうと、価値の高いアイテムがもらえる。ゲームを有利に進められ、利用者仲間の羨望も集まる。
Items can be bought and sold among players, so it is possible to earn profits by selling them at high prices. アイテムは利用者間でやり取りできるため、高値で売って儲(もう)けることも可能だ。
Games played on social networking service websites enthrall players by stimulating a sense of superiority and achievement as well as a desire to gamble. ソーシャルゲームは、優越感や達成感、射幸心など利用者の心理を巧みについて夢中にさせる。
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. ついつい何度もくじを引いてしまうと、多額の料金を払うことになり、電話使用料に上乗せして請求される仕組みだ。
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High price to pay
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. 分別ある大人が楽しむなら自己責任の面が強いが、問題は子供がはまり込むケースだ。中学生が月に４０万円も請求されるなど、保護者からの苦情が消費者相談窓口に相次いでいた。
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. 今回、消費者庁はコンプガチャを、昭和２０年代にブームとなったプロ野球選手カードと同様、景表法が禁じる「カード合わせ」と見なし、規制に踏み切った。だが、カード合わせと微妙に異なる“類似ガチャ”は適用が難しい。
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Restrictions necessary
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. それ以外の携帯ゲームでも、「原則無料」をうたって利用者を集めながら、ゲームをより楽しむには有料アイテムを買う必要がある、という大枠は同じものが多い。子供が多額の料金をつぎ込む恐れがある仕組みは変わらない。
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. 「グリー」や「ディー・エヌ・エー」など携帯ゲーム大手６社は、自社のコンプガチャは５月中に廃止し、ソーシャルゲーム全体の自主規制の指針を検討している。
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. 利用できる年齢を制限するなどの手立てを講じてもらいたい。アイテムを現金化できないようにすることも必要だろう。
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. ソーシャルゲーム市場は年間２５００億円の規模に急成長している。さらに発展を目指すならば、健全性を重視したビジネスモデルを再構築すべきだ。企業理念、業界全体の姿勢が問われている。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 29, 2012) （2012年5月29日01時59分 読売新聞）
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 29, 2012) Govt must establish strategy to develop seafloor resources 海底資源開発 政府主導で戦略を構築せよ（5月28日付・読売社説）
Abundant natural resources are sleeping under the seafloor in Japan's exclusive economic zone. 日本の排他的経済水域（ＥＥＺ）内には豊富な海底資源が眠っている。
We think the government needs to play a leading role in devising measures to aggressively develop and effectively use them. 政府主導で積極的に開発に取り組み、有効利用を図る必要があろう。
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. 政府は、中長期的な海洋政策の指針である「海洋基本計画」の見直しに着手した。年度内には新たな計画を策定する方針だ。
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. 首相と全閣僚で構成される総合海洋政策本部が司令塔だ。資源問題を始め、離島対策や環境保護など、様々な課題に戦略的に取り組んでもらいたい。
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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. 中でも期待されるのが「燃える氷」と呼ばれるメタンハイドレートなどの資源開発である。メタンハイドレートは海底に分布し、天然ガスを豊富に含んでいる。
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. 原子力発電の将来が不透明さを増す中、多様なエネルギー源を確保する上で、自前の天然ガス調達量を増やす意義は大きい。
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. 政府は、２月から３月にかけ、愛知県から三重県にまたがる太平洋側の沖合で掘削作業を行った。１０００メートルの深海底から２００～３００メートル掘り進め、メタンハイドレート層の存在を確認した。
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. この海域だけで、日本の液化天然ガス（ＬＮＧ）年間輸入量の１０年分以上に相当する天然ガスがあると試算されている。
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. 掘削作業に続き、来年１月には海底のメタンハイドレートから天然ガスを取り出す、世界初の産出試験が始まる。将来の生産を見据え、必要な機材の開発も進めなければならない。
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. 一方、銅や亜鉛、レアメタルなどを含む「海底熱水鉱床」も資源として有望とされる。政府は沖縄近海と伊豆・小笠原両諸島周辺の２か所で探査を進めている。
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Utilize continental shelf
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. メタンハイドレートと熱水鉱床の試掘や調査を踏まえ、政府はそれぞれの商業生産の可否を２０１８年度をメドに最終判断するとしている。海底資源を活用する道が開けることを期待したい。
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. 太平洋沖の約３１万平方キロ・メートルの海底が新たに日本の大陸棚として認められたことも、海洋資源開発にとっては好材料だ。大陸棚の積極的な活用を新計画に明確に位置づけるべきである。
To promote seafloor resource development in a stable manner, it is necessary to set certain rules. 海底資源開発を安定的に進めるには一定のルールが必要だ。
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. １月の改正鉱業法施行で、政府主導で海底の石油や天然ガスの鉱区候補地を指定し、開発業者の選定ができるようになった。
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. 改正鉱業法は、政府が外国船などによる違法な資源探査を規制することも可能とした。海上保安庁の取り締まり体制を、当然、強化しなければならない。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 28, 2012) （2012年5月28日01時17分 読売新聞）
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 28, 2012) Strengthen intl ties in Pacific to deal with China's assertiveness 島サミット 米と連携し中国進出に対処を（5月27日付・読売社説）
Japan's efforts to support development of the island countries that dot the Pacific will surely enhance the stability of the region. 太平洋上に散在する島(とう)嶼(しょ)国の発展を支えることが地域の安定につながろう。
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. 存在感を高める中国を念頭に、米国との連携強化も欠かせない。
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. パラオなど１３の島嶼国・地域の首脳らが参加し、沖縄県名護市で開かれた太平洋・島サミットは、全日程を終えて閉幕した。
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. 議長を務めた野田首相は記者会見で、「日本も島嶼国も自然災害に脆弱(ぜいじゃく)だ。日本の経験を共有したい」として、今回採択された首脳宣言で防災対策を柱に据えたことの意義を強調した。
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. 日本は宣言の中で、島嶼国に対し、津波や地震の発生に備えるための「災害早期警報システム」の整備を支援するほか、世界銀行との協力で「自然災害リスク保険」を創設することを約束した。
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A precious diplomatic asset
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. 首相は「財政は厳しいが、内向きにならず、世界の繁栄、安定に貢献していく」と、今後３年間に最大５億ドル（約４００億円）の支援を行う方針を表明した。前回と同等の規模の額である。
PALM has been held every three years under Japan's sponsorship since 1997. The latest summit is the sixth. 島サミットは日本の主導で１９９７年以来３年ごとに開かれ、６回目だ。
The Japanese government's continued support for the island countries, successfully nurturing their confidence in this country, is a precious diplomatic asset. 政府が島嶼国への支援を続け、信頼を醸成してきたことは貴重な外交資産だ。
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. 今回、島嶼国首脳と日本の企業経営者ら経済界との会合が実現した。民間投資の促進が狙いだ。政府は民間と協調し、きめ細かな援助外交を進めるべきである。
Also taken up in the latest PALM were issues involving the marine environment and marine resources development. 島サミットでは、海洋を巡る環境保護や資源開発などの問題も議題に取り上げられた。
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. 島嶼国に対しては、中国が積極的な援助外交を繰り広げている。支援総額では日本を追い抜き、豪州や米国に続く第３位になったと見られる。
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China's strategic thinking
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. 特に、鉱物資源などが豊富なパプアニューギニアやフィジーへの援助の急増ぶりが目立つ。
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. 今回の島サミットに欠席したフィジーの場合、欧米との関係が悪化していることからも、対中傾斜をさらに深める可能性がある。
Chinese leaders such as Premier Wen Jiabao and Vice President Xi Jinping have been making visits to these countries almost every year. こうした国々には、中国から温家宝首相や習近平国家副主席ら要人が毎年のように足を運んでいる。
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. 海軍艦船の寄港や軍事的支援だけでなく、移民も増えているという。戦略性がうかがえる。
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. 今回、初めて米国が島サミットに参加した。アジア太平洋重視を打ち出したオバマ政権は中国への警戒感を強め、島嶼国との関係構築に乗り出している。
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. 政府は米国のほか、島サミットに参加している豪州やニュージーランドと共に、太平洋地域の安定的発展に努めてもらいたい。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 27, 2012) （2012年5月27日01時42分 読売新聞）
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 27, 2012) International patent strategy needed against China 特許の国際戦略 「知財大国」中国への対策急げ（5月26日付・読売社説）
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. 特許など知的財産権を活用し、産業競争力を強化することは、日本の成長の原動力になる。知財大国化している中国への対策が急務だろう。
A concern for Japan is the increase in patent applications in China. 日本にとって気掛かりなのは、中国の特許出願件数が急増していることだ。
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. ２０１０年に日本を抜き、昨年は約５３万件と、約５１万件の米国も上回って世界１位になった。
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. 中国政府は、特許や工業製品デザインを保護する意匠権などを合わせた年間の知財出願件数を、１５年に現在の２倍近い２５０万件に増やすという計画を掲げる。
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. この方針を受け、中国企業の間に、技術などの権利化を急ぐ意識改革が進んでいるようだ。
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. 対照的に、日本の昨年の特許出願件数は約３４万件にとどまり、６年連続で減少した。日本各社が自社の開発技術を厳選して出願している事情もあろう。
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. しかし、特許出願件数は、経済の底力や、イノベーション（技術革新）を重視する企業の姿勢を示す一つの指標だ。日本の低下傾向に歯止めをかけたい。
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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. 一方、中国は「コピー天国」と言われるほど、一部業者による他国技術や商標の模倣が横行しており、被害が後を絶たない。
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. 日本の技術盗用との観測もある高速鉄道車両の台車技術に関し、中国企業が米国に特許出願していたことが昨年、表面化した。
The number of disputes on intellectual property rights between China and other countries is increasing. 中国との知財紛争も増えている。
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. 米アップル社の多機能情報端末「ｉＰａｄ」（アイパッド）の中国での商標を巡り、先に取得していたと主張する中国企業とアップル社は係争中だ。
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. 中国などで事業展開する企業は戦略の練り直しが必要だ。模倣対策を徹底するとともに、積極的に特許を国際出願し、自社の知財を守る体制を強化すべきである。
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Govt must support firms
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. 日本政府も中国に知財侵害の防止策を求め、日本企業の国際出願を支援しなければならない。
We praise the Patent Agency for beginning to consider granting design rights for icons displayed on screens of personal computers and smartphones. 特許庁が、パソコンやスマートフォン（高機能携帯電話）などの画面上に表示されるアイコンなどのデザインにも意匠権を認める検討を始めたことは評価できる。
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. これらの権利保護の必要性は急速に高まっている。日本の対応が遅れれば、中国企業などに権利を奪われかねない。
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. 昨年、特許法を大改正した米国では、オバマ政権が知財重視を打ち出している。米国との競争も激しく、日本政府と企業は、米国への対策強化も迫られよう。
The government and private sectors should work together to enhance effective utilization of the nation's intellectual property rights. 官民が連携し、知財の有効活用に弾みをつけることが重要だ。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 26, 2012) （2012年5月26日01時03分 読売新聞）
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 25, 2012) Set new, realistic target for greenhouse gas reductions 温暖化ガス削減 「２５％」は撤回し現実的目標を（5月24日付・読売社説）
The government should immediately withdraw Japan's target of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent from 1990 levels by 2020. 「２０２０年までに１９９０年比で２５％削減」という日本の温室効果ガス削減目標は、速やかに撤回すべきだ。
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. ３年前に鳩山元首相が国連の会合で打ち出したこの無謀な目標が、どれほど非現実的か。それを如実に示しているのが、環境省の中央環境審議会が公表した試算である。
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. 東京電力福島第一原子力発電所の事故を受けて実施した試算は、将来の全発電量に占める原発の比率を、０％から最大３５％まで５段階に分け、２０年時点の温室効果ガスの削減率をはじき出した。
Nuclear power plants, which emit almost no carbon dioxide when they generate electricity, are an important energy source in terms of fighting global warming. 発電時に二酸化炭素をほとんど出さない原発は、地球温暖化対策上、重要なエネルギーである。
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. 試算では、事故直前に２６％だった原発比率を３５％に引き上げ、省エネルギー政策を徹底した場合でさえ、削減率は９０年比で最大１９％にとどまった。
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More nuclear power unlikely
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. 現在、稼働する原発はゼロとなり、再稼働のメドすら立っていない。電力の安定供給を図るため、早期稼働が求められるが、将来の原発比率を事故前より引き上げることは、およそ考えにくい。
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. 海外からの排出枠購入や国内の森林のガス吸収分を加えても、２５％削減は達成困難と言えよう。
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。
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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）
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。
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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。
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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）
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。
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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。
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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）
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。
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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。
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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）
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。
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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。
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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）
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。
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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。
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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）
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。
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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。
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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）
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。
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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。
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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）
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。
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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。
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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）
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）
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。
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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。
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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）
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。
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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。
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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）
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。
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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。
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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）
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。
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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。
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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）
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。
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。
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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。
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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）
After an interval of four years, Vladimir Putin has returned to the post of Russian president. His new administration will have its hands full dealing with a stack of problems. ロシアでプーチン氏が４年ぶりに大統領に復帰した。多くの難題を抱えた新体制発足である。
"We have strengthened our country and returned our dignity as a great nation," Putin said at his inauguration ceremony. Putin's message conveyed his intention to continue pursuing a strong Russia. 就任式で、プーチン氏は、「我々は国を強くし、偉大な国民の誇りを取り戻した」と述べ、今後も強いロシアを追求する姿勢を示した。
Many ears pricked up when Putin recently expressed a specific economic goal of becoming one of the world's top five economies in the near future. 具体的な目標として、世界５位以内の経済大国入りを掲げていることが注目される。
However, to achieve this target, Russia will first need to break free from its excessive dependence on natural resources and develop its domestic industries, such as manufacturing, so that they are competitive in international markets. It is also vital that Russia introduce cutting-edge technologies. それには、何よりも、資源依存体質を変え、国際競争力を持つ製造業など国内産業を育成しなければならない。先端技術の導入は不可欠である。
Russia will not be able to obtain the trust of domestic and foreign investors without creating fair markets and an environment that attracts foreign investment. 公正な市場の形成に取り組み、外国の投資を呼び込むための環境を整備しなければ、国内外から信頼は得られない。
The new president urgently needs to eradicate the widespread corruption in his country and establish the rule of law. Putin was expected to tackle these issues when he first took office in 2000, but the problems remain unresolved. ロシア社会にはびこる汚職を一掃し、法治を確立することが急務だ。プーチン氏が２０００年に初めて大統領になった時以来の宿題だが、依然改善できずにいる。
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Public discontent growing
The fact that thousands of people participated in a demonstration held on the eve of Putin's inauguration shows how frustrated many Russians are with the current state of affairs. 就任式前日、多くの市民が参加して反プーチン集会が開かれたのは、不満の大きさの表れだ。
To obtain the backing of middle-class Russians seeking change, Putin will need to boldly reform the nation's political and administrative structures. In fact, this will be the only way Russia can achieve economic development. 変革を求める中間層からも支持を得られるように、政治・行政の大胆な見直しを進めてこそ、経済発展も可能となろう。
In one of Putin's first presidential orders, he stated a policy of strengthening cooperation with the Asia-Pacific region. プーチン氏は、就任後最初の大統領令で、アジア太平洋との連携を強化する方針を示した。
He said Moscow plans to establish mutually beneficial, cooperative relationships with nations such as Japan, South Korea and Australia, and to deepen ties with China and India. 中国、インドなどとの関係を深める一方、日本、韓国、オーストラリアなどとも互恵協力関係の構築を図りたいとしている。
As long as Russia aspires to become a major economic power, it is unsurprising that the country is looking closely at the Asia-Pacific region, which has become a hub of the world's economic growth. 経済大国化を目指す以上、世界の成長拠点であるアジア太平洋に着目したのは当然だ。
In September, an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit meeting will be held in Vladivostok. Russia will likely use this meeting as a stepping stone for strengthening economic cooperation with Asia-Pacific nations. ９月にウラジオストクで開くアジア太平洋経済協力会議（ＡＰＥＣ）首脳会議を、連携強化の足掛かりにする狙いがあろう。
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Don't forget northern territories
Russia has recently become increasingly important to Japan as a supplier of liquefied natural gas--a main fuel for thermal power plants. Strengthening bilateral economic cooperation in the energy field would benefit both countries. 日本にとって、火力発電所の主力燃料となる液化天然ガス（ＬＮＧ）をロシアから輸入することは、重要性を増している。エネルギー分野で経済協力を拡大することは日露両国に有益だろう。
However, we should not forget the issue of the Russian-held northern territories off Hokkaido. The Japan-Russia relationship soured during the administration of Putin's predecessor, Dmitry Medvedev. Moscow expressed hope for developing joint economic activities on the four islands, but never tried to move territorial talks forward. しかし、北方領土問題を忘れてはならない。メドベージェフ前大統領のもとで、日露関係は険悪化した。ロシア側は、日露両国による北方４島での共同経済活動には期待感を示すものの、領土交渉を動かす考えはなかった。
In his third term, Putin will likely take a tough line on foreign policies due to his unstable political footing caused by domestic concerns. Japan should not expect too much on the development of territorial talks. 大統領として３期目に入ったプーチン氏は、内政で足元が揺れているだけに、対外的には強い姿勢を崩すまい。交渉進展に大きな期待を抱くのは禁物である。
The Japanese government must rebuild its strategy vis-a-vis Russia after thoroughly examining Putin's diplomatic policies. 日本政府は、プーチン氏の外交方針を十分見極めて、対露戦略を再構築しなければならない。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 10, 2012) （2012年5月10日01時46分 読売新聞）
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 10, 2012) Realistic counterproposals needed from LDP 一体改革法案 与野党協議へ「建設的対案」を（5月9日付・読売社説）
Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda has declared it is "no exaggeration to say" he is staking his political life on passage of a package of bills for comprehensive reform of the social security and tax systems, on which Diet deliberations started Tuesday. 「政治生命を懸けるといった言葉に掛け値はない」――。野田首相がこう明言する社会保障と税の一体改革関連法案の審議が始まった。
The ruling and opposition parties should make serious concessions with the aim of passing the bills as soon as possible. 与野党は大胆に歩み寄り、早期の成立を目指すべきだ。
During a question-and-answer session in the House of Representatives, Tadamori Oshima, vice president of the main opposition Liberal Democratic Party, referred to the current gridlock in politics under the divided Diet. "It is desirable to establish rules regarding negotiations among parties so as to form a new policymaking process," he said. 衆院本会議の質疑で自民党の大島理森副総裁は「衆参ねじれ」による政治の停滞に関連し、「政党間協議のルールを確立し、新たな政策決定プロセスを構築することこそが求められる」と述べた。
Oshima also expressed his party's willingness to join negotiations between the ruling and opposition camps, depending on the Democratic Party of Japan's handling of discussions on the bills. 大島氏は、民主党の対応によっては与野党協議に応じても良い、との意向も明らかにした。
It is noteworthy that momentum has been finally generated to move toward debate on the integrated reform. 一体改革に向けて、話し合いの機運がようやく出てきたことは評価できよう。
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Cooperation crucial
To pass bills under the divided Diet, it is crucial for the government to gain cooperation from the LDP and other opposition parties. Noda must exercise his leadership to create an environment to elicit it. ねじれ国会で、政府が法案を成立させるには自民党など野党の協力が不可欠だ。野田首相は指導力を発揮し、野党の協力を得るための環境を整える必要がある。
The LDP has demanded the DPJ drop its plans to create a new pension system that would include a guaranteed minimum pension, as well as abolish a special health insurance system for people aged 75 and older. The two measures were among the major policies the party pledged in its manifesto for the 2009 lower house election. 自民党は、最低保障年金を柱とする新年金制度案と、後期高齢者医療制度の廃止方針の撤回を求めた。ともに民主党の政権公約（マニフェスト）の看板政策だ。
Noda has only indicated he would leave a decision up to the DPJ. We believe, however, the party has no choice but to drop those policies to pave the way for the ruling and opposition parties to hold talks on the bills. 首相は党内の検討に委ねる考えを示したが、与野党協議の実現に向けて撤回するしかあるまい。
The prime minister instead urged the LDP to make "constructive counterproposals" on the comprehensive reform. 首相は逆に、自民党に「建設的な対案」の提示を求めた。
When it comes to the social security system, the opposition party's counterproposal is unlikely to significantly differ from the government's legislation on integrating corporate employees' and mutual-aid pensions because the current government's plan is almost the same as the one submitted in 2007 by the coalition government between the LDP and New Komeito. 自民党の社会保障の対案は、政府案と大きく違うことはないだろう。政府が提出している厚生、共済両年金の一元化法案は、自公政権が２００７年に提出した法案とほとんど同じ内容である。
We believe that it would not take much time for the ruling and opposition camps to reach a consensus as long as the LDP makes a counterproposal on this issue. 自民党が対案を出せば、与野党の合意形成にそう時間はかからないのではないか。
The LDP also should compile a counterproposal on raising the consumption tax rate, in which support measures for low-income earners would be a major focal point. 自民党は、消費税率引き上げでも対案をまとめるべきだ。低所得者対策が一つの焦点となる。
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Examine reduced tax system
The government's bill to raise the consumption tax rate includes granting cash benefits to those with lower incomes, which might result in bloating the amounts of the planned cash allowances. The government would undermine the efficacy of the tax hike if it implements yet another handout policy at the same time. 低所得者への現金給付を軸とする政府案は、給付額が膨らむ恐れがある。新たなバラマキとなれば増税の効果は損なわれよう。
In Europe, which has a tradition of value-added taxes, reduced tax rate systems have been adopted with the aim of lowering the taxes on food and other daily necessities, as well as newspapers and books. 付加価値税の歴史が長い欧州では、食料品など生活必需品や、新聞・書籍などに対する軽減税率が定着している。
The LDP has been examining the introduction of a reduced tax rate system apparently because it regards the mechanism as realistic in light of the European example. We propose the government positively study the system. 自民党が軽減税率を検討しているのは、欧州を参考に現実的な案と判断しているからだろう。政府も前向きに考えてはどうか。
There is a concern, however, over Diet deliberations on the package of bills for the integrated reform. The LDP has set a precondition for holding discussions in a special committee: the replacement of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Minister Takeshi Maeda and Defense Minister Naoki Tanaka, who were recently censured by the opposition-controlled House of Councillors. 今後、一体改革法案の審議を進める上で懸念材料もある。自民党は、参院で問責された前田国土交通相と田中防衛相を辞めさせることを特別委員会での審議に応じる条件としている。
However, neither of the two ministers have anything to do with the social security or tax systems. The LDP should decouple debate on the bill from calling for the ministers to be replaced. だが、両氏とも社会保障・税とは無関係だ。辞任要求と、法案の審議は切り離すべきである。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 9, 2012) （2012年5月9日02時17分 読売新聞）
May 05, 2012(Mainichi Japan) Editorial: Aging society does not necessarily spell doom 社説:超高齢社会 「肩車型」の常識を疑え
Longevity is something to be celebrated, but when it comes to the aging of Japanese society, it is often discussed in a pessimistic tone. 長寿はおめでたいことなのに、高齢化となると悲観論をもって語られることが多い。
One reason for this is the continuing decline in people of working age. Learning that our society is shifting from one in which four working people financially support one senior citizen, to another in which each working person must support one senior citizen -- a so-called "piggyback" setup -- would make anyone anxious. And indeed, that is exactly what is happening. 現役世代の人口が減り続けているせいでもある。現役４人が高齢者１人を背負う「騎馬戦型」から、現役１人が高齢者１人を背負う「肩車型」になると言われたら誰しも不安になるだろう。たしかに人口比率はそのようになる。
This unfolding state of affairs has prompted calls to raise Japan's tax and insurance rates, which are some of the lowest among all industrialized nations around the world. But perhaps because Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda and other officials lack the rhetoric to persuade the public of the validity of their policy, the push to establish a full-fledged piggyback arrangement appears to be undermining confidence in the country's social security system. だからこそ先進国最低レベルの国民負担率（税と保険の負担）をもう少し引き上げるべきだという文脈で「肩車型」説は登場したはずだったが、野田佳彦首相らの言い方がまずいのだろうか、逆に社会保障制度の信頼性を揺るがせているようにも思える。
It would be ironic if the number of people signing up with the national pension or health insurance plans were to shrink as a result. そのせいで年金や保険の未加入者が増えているのだとしたらあまりに皮肉だ。
So let us take a closer look at why piggyback systems spur pessimism. 現役の負担は増えない ここは世の「肩車型＝悲観論」の常識を疑ってみようではないか。
Accepting the premise that the ratio of working-age citizens (people aged 15 to 64) to senior citizens (those aged 65 and over) will eventually become one to one, the important thing when evaluating the stability of the social security system is the ratio between those in the work force earning money, and those who are being supported. 現役（１５～６４歳）と高齢者（６５歳以上）の人口比がいずれ１対１になるのは間違いないとして、社会保障の安定性を考える上で大事なのは働いて所得を得ている層と「支えられる側」の比率であることを忘れてはならない。
It's not just senior citizens that the working population supports. 「支えられる側」にいるのは高齢者だけではない。
It was common for families to have and therefore provide for many children in the era immediately after World War II, but the number of children per household has been in decline more recently. 戦後間もないころの親は大勢の子供たちを育てていたが、今は子供の数が減り続けている。
Those who required financial support in the past also included housewives, the disabled, and those who were ill, but today, there are more two-income households than single-income households, and the employment of the disabled is on the rise. また、以前の「支えられる側」には専業主婦、障害者、病気の人も含まれていたが、今は専業主婦世帯よりも共働き世帯の方が増え、障害者の雇用率も上がっている。
Moreover, there are far more people working past the age of 65 today than there were before. また、６５歳を過ぎても働いている高齢者は以前と比べものにならないほど多くなった。
Shut-ins and NEETs (people "not in education, employment, or training") undoubtedly do exist, but even taking such populations into account, the ratio between those who do the supporting and those who receive support has barely changed over the past few decades. ひきこもりやニートなど現役世代で働いていない人もいるが、これらのデータを含めて総合的に見ると、「支える側」と「支えられる側」の比率はこの数十年ほとんど変化がない。
If senior citizens and housewives continue to work outside the home, thereby expanding the population providing for those who need support, the burden on the working population should not increase. 今後も高齢者や主婦が働いて「支える側」が厚くなれば、高齢化率の伸びほどには現役世代の負担は増えないだろう。
The theory that social security costs will surge at a rate of 1 trillion yen per year as Japanese society continues to age, widening intergenerational economic gaps, also calls for closer analysis. もう一つ、悲観論の根拠である「高齢化に伴って社会保障費が毎年１兆円ずつ増え、世代間格差が広がる」という説も考えてみよう。
During a time when it was common for three generations of families to live together, caring for elderly parents and children was considered the work of the wife, while the husband was expected to earn money for all household expenses. ３世代同居が当たり前だった時代は、老いた両親の介護や子供の保育はもっぱら妻の役割とされ、その妻を含めた大家族全員の生活費を現役世代の夫が一人で支えていた。
As nuclear families and single-person households become the norm and the number of children drops, the burden of caring for elderly family members and bringing up children becomes relatively light. ところが、核家族やひとり暮らしが当たり前になり、子供の数も減ってくると、親の介護や保育の負担は相対的に軽くなる。
If elderly parents are able to live on social security and personal savings, the financial burden on the working generation is alleviated. 老いた親も年金や預金で生活できるようになれば、現役世代の経済的負担は少なくなる。
Of course, there are many senior citizens who receive a low level of social security benefits or none at all, and there is no end to the number of people who leave their jobs to focus on caring for their aging parents. もちろん、無年金や低年金の高齢者は多く、親の介護のために離職する人も後を絶たないが、
However, compared to a time when neither social security nor nursing care insurance was available, the burden on working citizens has not become categorically worse. 年金も介護保険もなかったころに比べれば、今の現役世代の負担は一概に重くなったとは言えない。
Rather, inheritance per capita has risen, and people generally have more opportunities and funds to receive an education. むしろ１人当たりの相続財産は以前より多く、教育を受ける機会や費用も増えている。
In other words, the impression people commonly have of the piggyback arrangement, and the actual generational gap in burdens are very different. 「肩車型」のイメージと世代間格差の実相はかなり違うと考えるべきだ。
Rising social security costs may pose great pressure on government finances, but if the increased costs are translated into better nursing care and childcare services, it could lighten the load on families in the working generation. 国家財政レベルでは社会保障費の増加は圧迫要因かもしれないが、増加分が介護や保育サービスの充実に回れば、現役世代の家族内の負担は軽減されていく。
One of the intended functions of the social security system is to collect a larger proportion of taxes and insurance premiums from high-income workers, and redistribute it to those with lower incomes. もともと社会保障は所得の多い人から税や保険料を多く集め、所得の少ない人に回す再分配の機能を持つ。
What's important is not just whether the costs are expanding, but whether the funds are being redistributed effectively. 費用の膨張だけでなく、再分配が有効に機能しているかどうかが問題なのである。
There is a group, sometimes called the "platinum generation," whose age makes them "senior citizens" but are actually a part of the population that give the piggyback rides. プラチナ世代に注目 「支える側」で特に注目すべきなのは元気な高齢層だ。 年齢区分では「高齢者」とされるが、実は肩車の下側で支えている。
Among those who turned 65 this year are pro-baseball team Rakuten Eagles' manager Senichi Hoshino and the comedian and film director Takeshi Kitano. たとえば、今年６５歳になった人を見ると、プロ野球の星野仙一楽天監督、タレントで映画監督の北野武氏をはじめそうそうたる人物が各界で名を連ねる。
They're full of life and are highly unlikely to go into retirement anytime soon. そう簡単に隠居などしそうにない、ピカピカの現役である。
Readers must also know many people who are 65 or older who one wouldn't think to describe as "elderly." 「お年寄り」と呼ぶのもはばかられる６５歳以上はあなたの身近にも多いはずだ。
In a story on post-war Japanese medicine and insurance last year, the British medical journal The Lancet wrote about the "platinum generation" -- called so because while its members technically fit into the "silver generation," they are shiny and bright instead of dull like oxidized silver. Japan must recognize not only that our people are living long lives, but also that our country has produced a large population of energetic seniors. 年齢的にはシルバーだが、いぶし銀のような地味さはなく色あせずに輝き続けるという意味で「プラチナ世代」と呼ばれたりする。 戦後の日本の医療や保険の成果について昨年、英医学誌「ランセット」が特集したが、単に長寿だというだけでなく元気な高齢世代を大量に出現させた功績も見逃してはならない。
It is not rare to see former businessmen and researchers in the sciences finding success in areas such as social welfare and farming after retiring from their original jobs. ビジネスマンや理系研究者が定年後、福祉や農業などの分野に転身し成功している例は今や珍しくない。
We would like senior citizens to break bravely into uncharted fields, making use of the abundant knowledge and experience they've accumulated over the years. 未知の分野に果敢に飛び込み、長年培ってきた豊富な知識や経験を生かしてほしい。
It is at the intersection of various values that we can hope to find clues that will pave the way to a new era. 多様な価値観がぶつかり合うところに新しい時代を切り開くヒントが生まれるはずだ。
To fully harness the skills and talents of the platinum generation, medical and welfare systems must change. プラチナ世代が輝き続けるためには医療や福祉も変わらねばならない。
With old age, most people develop illnesses and disabilities. 高齢になれば誰だって病気や障害は持つものだ。
We must make a quick shift from our current acute medical model concentrating on curing patients, to a medical and nursing care model that allows people to continue working and living with purpose while living with chronic ailments. 「治す」ことを目的にした急性期医療モデルから、治らなくても生きがいを持って働き続けられるような慢性期の医療・介護モデルへの転換を急ぐべきだ。
Once the platinum generation comes to account for a much larger proportion of those who provide support to those who need it, our nation will look very different. 大量のプラチナ世代が「支える側」に回ったとき、この国のかたちはずいぶん違って見えてくる。
Excessive pessimism is uncalled for. 過度の悲観は禁物だ。
Let us think about how we ourselves can continue to give piggybacks as long as possible. どうやって「支える側」に居続けられるかを考えよう。
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 8, 2012) Human rights issue causes friction between U.S., China 米中戦略対話 人権で摩擦の火種を残した（5月6日付・読売社説）
The fourth round of the U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue, held in Beijing, recently ended. 北京で開かれていた第４回米中戦略・経済対話が閉幕した。
Ministers of the two countries discussed a range of issues such as diplomacy, security and the economy. In a joint statement, the countries vowed "to build a new model of bilateral relations in the 21st century." 両国の閣僚が、外交や安全保障、経済など幅広い課題について話し合い、共同文書で、「２１世紀の新たな国家関係のモデルを構築する」との方針を確認した。
The United States and China, whose economic interdependence has deepened, reiterated they would aim to play an important role not only in addressing global economic issues but also in achieving peace and stability in the international community. 経済的な相互依存関係を深める両国が、世界経済だけでなく、国際社会の平和と安定に重要な役割を果たしていくという決意を、改めて表明したものだ。
Shortly before the talks, however, a diplomatic standoff arose when blind Chinese rights activist Chen Guangcheng sought protection at the U.S. Embassy. だが、対話直前、中国の盲目の人権活動家、陳光誠氏の米国大使館駆け込み事件が起きた。
The United States and China gave the impression that they even attempted to resolve the issue during the talks to prevent it from harming their bilateral relationship. 対話中も、米中は、事件が両国関係に影響を及ぼさぬよう、もっぱら事件の火消しに終始した感が強い。
But this case has highlighted the fact that the two countries have flashpoints over human rights issues in addition to diplomatic and military matters. 外交・軍事面は無論、人権問題でも火種を抱えていることを浮き彫りにしたと言える。
The diplomatic standoff is likely to end, as China has indicated it will allow Chen to leave the country to study in the United States. 事件は、中国側が陳氏の留学目的での出国を認める方針を示し、米国留学で決着する見通しだ。
China is apparently aiming to fend off a growing domestic democracy movement by permitting Chen, who has become a symbol in the human rights movement, to leave China soon. 中国には、人権問題の象徴となった陳氏を早期に出国させることで、国内の民主化運動の高まりを防ぐ狙いがあろう。
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Washington needs patience
The United States and China agreed to hold talks on human rights issues this summer. But Beijing, which has called foreign countries' references to human rights in China interference in its domestic affairs, is unlikely to change its attitude. The United States therefore needs to patiently urge China to improve its human rights situation without compromising easily. 米中は、人権対話の今夏開催で合意した。国内人権状況への言及を「内政干渉」とはねつける中国の姿勢は変わるまい。米国は安易に妥協することなく、状況改善を地道に働きかける必要がある。
Issues concerning moves on the Korean Peninsula, such as prevention of an anticipated nuclear test by North Korea, and Iran's nuclear program--which were supposed to be the main focus of the talks--ended up being overshadowed by human rights. Such topics as North Korea and Iran were on the agenda, but the specifics of discussions on the matters are unknown. 今回の対話の焦点だった北朝鮮の核実験阻止など朝鮮半島情勢や、イラン核問題への対応は、人権問題の陰に隠れる形となった。議題に取り上げられたものの、具体的な議論の内容は不明だ。
China and the United States, both permanent members of U.N. Security Council, should take the initiative in blocking North Korea from carrying out another nuclear test. 国連安全保障理事会の常任理事国である両国は、率先して北朝鮮の核実験阻止に努めるべきだ。
During the dialogue, the United States and China also decided to inaugurate maritime safety talks this autumn as well as consultations on Asia-Pacific affairs in the second half of the year. 今回の対話では、海洋安全対話を今秋初めて開催することや、アジア太平洋地域に関する協議を今年後半に開くことも決まった。
Disagreements between the two countries over the South China Sea are significant. The United States has called on China to maintain free navigation in the sea while Beijing has urged Washington to respect its "core national interests." Dispelling mutual distrust through a series of talks is vital for the two countries. 南シナ海を巡っては、「航行の自由」を訴える米国と、自らの「核心的利益」として尊重を迫る中国の立場の隔たりが大きい。両国が一連の対話を通じて、不信感を緩和することが重要である。
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Dialogue has positive effect
Regarding the economy, the countries decided to resume negotiations on concluding an investment accord. China pressed the United States to ease regulations on high-tech exports to China. Washington agreed to look into Beijing's request, including the easing of such export control. 経済問題では投資協定の交渉再開が決まった。中国がハイテク製品の対中輸出規制緩和を求めたのに対し、米国が検討に応じるなど合意点も少なくなかった。
This platform of economic dialogue appears to have had some positive effect in reducing economic frictions between the two countries. 経済摩擦の解消へ、対話は一定の効果を上げていると見てよい。
Meanwhile, ministerial-level economic talks between Japan and China have not been held since 2010, primarily due to Japan's political stalemate and China's objections over the Senkaku Islands issue. The Japanese government must restart and expand the talks as soon as possible. 日中間では、日本の政局や尖閣諸島を巡る中国の反発などが原因で、閣僚級のハイレベル経済対話が２０１０年を最後に、開かれていない。対話を早期に再開し、拡大を図っていかねばならない。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 6, 2012) （2012年5月6日01時15分 読売新聞）
May 06, 2012(Mainichi Japan) Kaleidoscope of the Heart: Problem of young homeless not just a lack of drive 香山リカのココロの万華鏡:甘え？若年ホームレス ／東京
The Big Issue, a project which supports homeless people by having them sell its magazines, is now known by many people. Recently The Big Issue foundation put together its second report on young homeless. In the introduction it is written that since the 2008 financial crisis, the number of homeless in Japan under 40 has sharply risen. 路上生活者に雑誌を販売してもらい、仕事を提供して自立を応援する事業「ビッグイシュー」は、いまでは多くの人に知られる存在となった。そのビッグイシュー基金が、このたび「若者ホームレス白書２」をまとめた。その冒頭には、２００８年のリーマン・ショック以降、４０歳未満の若いホームレスが急増している、という衝撃的な事実が記されている。
There are surely people who, hearing that there are those who are young and yet have no job or home, think, "They probably just don't have drive." From the report, however, the complicated circumstances of these young people can be seen, which cannot be set aside only by saying these people "don't have drive." 「若いのに仕事も家もない人」と聞くと、「やる気がないだけなんでしょう？」と思う人もいるだろう。しかし、白書からは単に「やる気がない」だけではすまされない、彼らの複雑な事情が浮かび上がってくる。
It may seem strange, but many homeless in their 20s and 30s have not only work experience, but experience as full-time employees. One young person mentioned in the report feared work after traumatic bullying at a previous job. "Of course it is unpleasant being homeless. But I have an equal amount of fear toward working," the person is quoted as saying. 意外に感じるかもしれないが、２０代、３０代のホームレスの多くは、就業経験どころか正社員の経験も持つ。白書に取り上げられているある若者は、過去に仕事で受けたトラウマがもとになり、働くことが怖くなり、身動きが取れなくなっている。「職場いじめ」を受けたという２０代の若者の言葉が痛々しい。「ホームレス状態でいることはもちろんイヤ。でもそれと同じくらいの恐怖が働くことがある」
Of course, I understand there are opinions that such people are not trying hard enough. However, I don't think that when they come across difficulties, things will somehow work out if they withstand the stress and seek help from those around them, because they no longer trust themselves or others. もちろん、「そんなの、甘えだよ」という声があるのもわかる。しかし、甘えているわけではない。彼らは「困難にぶち当たっても、耐えたりまわりに相談したりすればなんとかなるはずだ」と思えない。自分のことも他人のことも、まったく信頼できないからだ。
Reading the report, one understands that for these people to get out of homelessness, they need more than just work, a home or money. They need to once more trust the world, other people and themselves, or nothing will start. 白書を読んでいると、彼らがホームレス状態から脱出するためには、仕事や住まい、準備資金などを与えるだけでは不十分だ、ということがわかってくる。彼らにもう一度、世間や他人、そして自分のことを信じる気持ちを持ってもらわなければ、何ごとも始まらないのだ。
To restore this trust, first they need to think, "The world and life are not bad." では、どうすれば「他人や自分を信頼する気持ち」を回復させられるのか。まず必要なのは、「世の中や人生って悪くないな」と思ってもらうことだ。
The Big Issue's foundation has created homeless soccer teams and had them participate in various competitions. Through this there have been young people who, feeling gratitude that there is a place they can relax, have taken the first steps toward recovery. ビッグイシュー基金でもホームレスの人たちのサッカーチームを作り、いろいろな大会に積極的に参加しているが、そこで「ホッとできる場所があるっていいな」と感じて立ち直りの一歩を歩み出した若者もいる。
The report reads, "Young homelessness is not a unique phenomenon." In these hard times, everyone constantly lives with the possibility that their workplace or community will tell them, "You are no longer needed." I hope people will think of the young homeless who have lost their jobs, homes and social connections without saying, "They are just not trying hard enough." 白書は言う。「若年ホームレスは特殊な現象ではない」。厳しいこの時代、誰もがいまの職場や地域から「もういらないよ」と言われる危険性と隣り合わせだ。「ああ、ただの甘えでしょ」と思わずに、仕事も住まいも人とのつながりも失った、若年ホームレスの問題や彼らの胸のうちについて考えてみてほしい。
--The Asahi Shimbun, May 6 EDITORIAL: New system needed to ensure public input on nuclear power 「原発ゼロ」社会：下 市民の熟議で信頼構築を
The devastating accident at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant last year has evoked serious public distrust of politicians, bureaucrats and scientists. 福島第一原発の事故をきっかけに、政治や行政、科学者などへの不信と疑念が広がった。
What needs to be done to stop the continuing growth of public distrust and restore their credibility with the people? その連鎖を断ち切り、信頼を再構築するにはどうしたらいいのだろうか。
The government has promised to promote “national debate” as part of its efforts to map out a new nuclear power and energy policy. Specifically, it plans to sort out the possible policy options that have been discussed by related advisory councils and study groups and present them to the people. 政府は新たな原発・エネルギー政策に向けた「国民的議論」を掲げる。関係する審議会や調査会で検討してきた選択肢を整理して、国民に提示する。
The government says it is aiming to build a national consensus on the future direction of the policy by summer. 夏までに今後の方向性について合意を目指す考えという。
But not all the assumptions for the debate are clear. ただ、議論の前提が整っているわけではない。
The government’s committee looking into the nuclear accident has yet to compile its report. The proposed new nuclear safety watchdog, tentatively named the “Nuclear Regulatory Agency,” has yet to be created. It will be even longer before new nuclear safety standards are established. 政府の事故調査委員会の報告はまだだ。原子力規制庁（仮称）もできていない。原発の新しい安全基準作りはさらに先になる。
The power supply and demand situation this summer and progress in the efforts to promote use of renewable energy sources will also influence the debate. この夏の電力需給や自然エネルギーの普及度合いも議論を左右する。
A well-thought-out plan and its careful implementation are vital. A rough-and-ready approach could even deepen the people’s distrust. 知恵を絞る必要がある。拙速にことを運べば、かえって不信を広げかねない。
ORDINARY PEOPLE LEARN ■普通の人々が学ぶ
Western industrial nations have responded to “crises of credibility” of experts involved in policymaking, such as scientists, by trying to restore public confidence in them through in-depth discussions among citizens. 欧米では、科学者ら専門家への「信頼の危機」に見舞われた際、市民参加による熟議を通じて信頼の再生を図ってきた。
When the credibility of scientists who ruled out the transmission of mad cow disease to humans was shattered, for example, Britain began to make serious efforts to promote policy debate involving ordinary citizens. Some 20,000 citizens took part in the debate over genetically modified food, including people who did so through the Internet. Various forums were established also for discussions on the safety of nanotechnology. たとえば、英国は牛海綿状脳症（ＢＳＥ）のヒトへの感染を否定した専門家の信頼が地に落ち、市民参加型の議論に本腰を入れた。遺伝子組み換え作物をめぐる議論にはネット経由を含め２万人が参加した。ナノテクノロジーの安全性でも、様々な議論の場が設けられた。
Science and technology make our lives more comfortable and convenient but can also produce some unexpected side effects and risks. 科学技術は暮らしを便利にするが、思わぬ副作用や危険性もある。
As the world has experienced many serious cases of public pollution and major accidents, there is now a growing global trend toward giving public opinion more influence over policy decisions on such issues as whether to permit the practical use of specific technologies. 公害や大事故などを経て、実用化の是非などに社会の意見を反映する流れが世界的に加速している。
At the same time, a broad array of schemes have been devised to allow citizens to participate in the policymaking process as a way to shore up eroding public confidence in democracy. 一方、低下傾向にある民主政治への信認を補う目的でも、政策形成に市民が加わるさまざまな仕組みが考案されてきた。
The nuclear power and energy policy is one of the biggest themes that should reflect these two trends. 原発・エネルギー政策は、この二つの流れが重なる最大級のテーマといえる。
In Japan, however, the atomic energy policy has been plagued by fake democracy. Spurious efforts to seek the opinions of local communities that are actually designed to justify the predetermined plans to build nuclear power facilities have been rampant. 日本の原発政策では住民の意見を聞く形をとりながら、実際は既定の方針を正当化する「名ばかり民主主義」が横行してきた。
The bleak situation was highlighted anew by Kyushu Electric Power Co.’s attempt to manipulate public opinion on the resumption of operations at its Genkai nuclear power plant by using hundreds of its employees to send pro-nuclear e-mails to a TV program on the issue. 九州電力で発覚したやらせメールはその典型例だ。
In contrast, major Western countries generally have fairer and more transparent systems for citizen participation in policy debate. Typically, several dozens of “ordinary citizens” are chosen at random for debate on a specific policy issue to ensure that the participants represent a good cross section of society. これに対し、欧米での市民参加型では、無作為抽出などで数十人程度の「普通の人々」を選ぶのが一般的だ。いわば「社会の縮図」である。
After learning the basics of the issue, the participants think them over and discuss the issue at leisure. Usually, the participants are asked to express their opinions through proposals and questionnaires as summaries of the results of the debate. Their opinions are considered by the government and the legislature. 参加者は基礎知識を学んだうえでじっくり考え、議論する。その結果を意見書やアンケートで集約し、行政や議会に尊重させるといった流れをとる。
To win the trust of society, such policy debate must be independent, neutral and transparent. 議論が社会から信用されるための生命線は、独立、中立、そして透明性だ。
That means debate needs to be organized and sponsored by a neutral and independent body and moderated by experienced staff skilled in avoiding leading debate in a certain direction. It is also important to make clear the relationship of the experts chosen to support the debate with the industry and the government. 中立で独立した主催者のもとで、議論を誘導しないよう習熟したスタッフが進行役をつとめる。議事に協力する専門家が業界や行政とどんな関係にあるのかも明らかにする。
'COMMON SENSE' AS SUPPLEMENT ■補完としての「常識」
This approach is no magic wand. It requires time and money. The citizens have no power to make the final policy decision. The system doesn’t replace the legislature composed of elected representatives. これらの方法は決して魔法の杖ではない。手間も金もかかるうえ、最終的な決定権はない。選挙で選ばれた議会に代わるわけではない。
All that such a system can do is to show the provisional common sense among citizens at that time, which can only play a supplementary role. あくまで補完として、その時々の暫定的な市民社会の常識を示すにすぎない。
Still, it can make up for the shortcomings of the traditional policymaking process, at least to some extent. It can make visible citizens’ good sense as well as differences in the principles and tenets on which they cannot compromise. それでも、これまでのやり方の欠点を補う力はある。市民の良識や、譲れない信条の違いを「見える化」する。
These are functions that are needed for meaningful debate to overcome the sharp division among Japanese over the future of nuclear power generation in this nation. 賛否両極に大きく割れる原発議論を乗り越えるには必要な機能だ。
If the results of such careful and in-depth policy debate are handed down to the next generation, that would give an incentive for people living now to respect the right of “future generations” to make decisions. This is one realistic way to tackle policy challenges that will affect many generations to come, such as how to dispose of spent nuclear fuel. 熟議の成果を次世代へリレーするなら、「将来世代」の意思決定権を尊重する動機もはたらく。使用済み核燃料の処分など末代まで関わる問題に、ひとつの方法を示唆してもいよう。
In addition, this approach is also useful for solving the dilemma posed by the fact that elections don’t necessarily guarantee the best choices for specific policy issues because they are fought over the campaign platforms of the parties that contain a wide range of proposals. さらに、各政党がさまざまな政策を掲げる選挙では個別政策で必ずしも最適の選択ができない、というジレンマを解きほぐすのにも有効だ。
In the city of Tokushima, citizens that didn’t belong to either camp in debate over the construction of a sluice-gate dam in the Yoshinogawa river held many meetings to study the issue. Their fruitful efforts prompted the city to hold a referendum on the issue. かつて徳島市では吉野川の可動堰（ぜき）問題をめぐり、賛否から距離を置く市民が勉強会を数多く開き、その実績を踏まえて市が住民投票を行ったことがある。
There can also be a system to hold popular referendums on national policy issues after several years of promoting such in-depth grassroots debate on the issues. 国政でも、草の根の熟議を継続させ、数年間の実績を経てから国民投票にかける仕組みもありえよう。
In preparing for the envisioned national debate on the nation’s energy future, the government should entrust a neutral party to manage the actual operations and take steps to make sure there is an exhaustive and constructive debate that is beneficial for future generations as well. 政府が考える国民的議論も、中立的な担い手に運営を任せたうえで、もっと時間をかけ、議論を将来につなげるよう、工夫してはどうだろう。
The government should craft specific plans to implement its policy of phasing out nuclear power generation in Japan as soon as possible. But continuing in-depth debate on the nuclear power policy would help promote public understanding and periodical reviews of the policy. 政府としては脱原発依存の方針を早く具体化すべきだが、熟議型の議論を続けることは政策の定着や見直しに役立つ。
ROLE OF THE DIET ■国会で制度作りを
The Diet should play a leading role in the efforts to promote such in-depth policy debate by citizens. 市民参加型の熟議を支えるうえで、大きな役割を果たしているのが議会（国会）だ。
In Japan, the Diet has set up its own investigative committee to uncover the facts about the Fukushima nuclear disaster. 日本でも福島事故では国会が調査委員会を設け、事実究明に力を注いでいる。
We urge the Diet to show a commitment to fostering broad consensus among the people on related issues. ここは、民意の熟成にも目配りしてほしい。
There is actually a long list of formidable policy challenges that will go beyond the current generation, including integrated tax and social security reform as well as the reinvention of the nuclear power and energy policy. 原発・エネルギーに限らず、税と社会保障改革など世代を超えた難題は目白押しである。
Lawmakers should consider setting up a new executive office within the Diet to organize meetings for in-depth discussions among citizens on policy issues and help universities, nonprofit organizations and other neutral bodies hold such public hearings as well. 国会に事務局を置き、自ら熟議集会を主催したり、大学やＮＰＯなど中立組織による開催を支援したりしてはどうか。
People tend to long for a strong leader when their distrust of politics and confusion about policy issues deepen. 不信と混迷が深まると、強い指導者を求めがちだ。
But the only way to secure real progress in democracy is to get citizens more deeply involved in the policymaking process and in the efforts to solve policy issues as their own challenges. しかし、政策への市民の関与を強め、わがこととして解決する道こそが民主主義を深化させる。
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 4, 2012) Vision of the state questioned in top law revision debate 憲法記念日 改正論議で国家観が問われる（5月3日付・読売社説）
◆高まる緊急事態法制の必要性
Japan is currently facing many pending issues at home and abroad, such as reconstruction from the Great East Japan Earthquake, resolving the crisis at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant and dealing with China, which is expanding its economic and military power. 日本は今、東日本大震災からの復興や原子力発電所事故の収束、経済・軍事で膨張する中国への対応など、内外に多くの懸案を抱えている。
Since what the state should be is being questioned, we should go back to basics. The ruling and opposition parties should pursue the ideal form this country should take by deepening their discussions on constitutional revisions. 国家のあり方が問われているからこそ、基本に戻りたい。与野党は憲法改正の論議を深め、あるべき国家像を追求すべきだ。
◆主権回復６０年の節目に
Ahead of last Saturday, April 28, the 60th anniversary of the San Francisco Peace Treaty coming into force, the Liberal Democratic Party released the second draft of its proposed revisions to the Constitution. サンフランシスコ講和条約の発効からちょうど６０年を迎えた４月２８日を前に、自民党は、第２次憲法改正草案を発表した。
LDP President Sadakazu Tanigaki stressed the necessity of constitutional revisions, a fundamental issue that led to the party's formation, saying it is something "we should've tackled when Japan regained sovereignty." 谷垣総裁は「主権を回復した時に挑まねばならないことだった」と述べ、結党の原点である憲法改正の必要性を強調した。
It is a well-known fact that the Constitution was based on a draft drawn up by the General Headquarters of the Allied Powers. We commend the LDP for again proposing national debate on revisions to the top law by reviewing its first draft of revisions, written in 2005. 憲法が、連合国軍総司令部（ＧＨＱ）の案を基に作成されたことは周知の事実である。自民党が２００５年の草案を見直し、改めて国民的な憲法改正論議を提起したことは評価したい。
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Emergencies provision sought
The LDP's new draft also established a provision to deal with emergencies, based on lessons from the Great East Japan Earthquake. Under the latest draft, the prime minister would be able to declare a state of emergency in the event of armed attacks on the country, a civil war and large-scale disasters. 新草案は、東日本大震災の反省も踏まえて、緊急事態に対処するための条項を設けた。武力攻撃や内乱、大規模災害の際、首相は「緊急事態」を宣言できる。
The revisions would enable the prime minister to issue orders to the heads of local governments based on the declaration. それに基づき、地方自治体の首長に指示することなどを可能にした。
To protect people's lives and property, fundamental human rights--including the freedom to choose and change one's residence, and property rights--could be temporarily restricted within the minimum scope necessary. For this reason, some people object to the provision concerning emergencies. 国民の生命と財産を守るためには、居住及び移転の自由、財産権など基本的人権を必要最小限の範囲で一時的に制限することにもなろう。それだけに、緊急事態条項への反対論はある。
However, it is much more dangerous for the government to take supralegal measures that it claims are necessary in an emergency, with no provision for such steps stipulated in the Constitution. This is why almost all countries, including Germany and France, have a provision concerning emergencies in their constitutions. しかし、何の規定もないまま、政府が緊急事態を理由に超法規的措置をとることの方がよほど危険だ。独仏などほとんどの国が憲法に緊急事態条項を明文化しているのは、そのためでもある。
It is the government's responsibility to prepare for emergencies in times of calm. 緊急事態への備えを平時に整えておくことは、政府の責務だ。
Previous damage estimates are being reviewed for earthquakes, including a possible inland earthquake that could directly hit Tokyo, in which the capital's functions could be paralyzed, and a massive earthquake along the Nankai Trough caused by simultaneous Tokai, Tonankai and Nankai earthquakes. 首都機能が喪失しかねない「首都直下地震」や、東海、東南海、南海地震の連動する「南海トラフの巨大地震」など従来の被害想定が見直されている。
Also, the possibility that nuclear power plants in the nation may be targeted by terrorists cannot be denied. 原発を狙うテロの可能性も否定できない。
Existing laws, including the Disaster Countermeasures Basic Law, are inadequate to fully cope with situations in which the state's functions are hindered. 国家の機能が損なわれる事態に災害対策基本法など現行の法律だけでは、十分対処できまい。
Another important point for debate will be dealing with a possible emergency at a time when the House of Representatives has been dissolved or when its lawmakers' terms are about to expire. 衆院解散時、あるいは任期満了に近い時点での緊急事態対処も重要な論点になる。
Parallel to discussions on constitutional revisions, the government also should consider establishing new legislation such as a basic contingency law. 憲法改正論議と同時に、政府は「緊急事態基本法」といった新たな立法も考慮すべきである。
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Self-defense issues ◆自衛隊位置付け明確に
On national security, the LDP's new draft maintained the current Constitution's policy of denouncing war, which is stipulated in Article 9, but added a clause saying this does not preclude the nation from "invoking the right to self-defense." 安全保障に関して新草案は９条の戦争放棄を堅持し、「自衛権の発動を妨げるものではない」との一文を加えた。
The draft authorized the nation to possess the Self-Defense Forces under the name of "national defense forces." The draft also clarified that Japan is entitled to exercise the right to collective self-defense, which has been officially denied by past administrations. 自衛隊は「国防軍」として保持するとした。政府見解が禁じる集団的自衛権の行使を、可能にすることを明確にした。
The LDP's draft also added a clause stipulating that the government must cooperate with citizens to maintain the nation's territorial integrity and secure its resources. 政府は、国民と協力して領土を保全し、資源を確保しなければならない、との条項も設けた。
We believe the LDP's judgments on the draft over national security are all appropriate. いずれも妥当な判断だ。
The security environment surrounding Japan has increasingly become severe, due to factors including China's advancement into adjacent seas and North Korea's nuclear development program. In this situation, it is necessary for Japan to be able to exercise the right to collective self-defense for the Japan-U.S. alliance to function smoothly. 中国の海洋進出、北朝鮮の核開発など、日本の安全保障を巡る環境が厳しさを増す中、集団的自衛権の行使を可能にし、日米同盟を円滑に機能させる必要がある。
On the other hand, we have doubts about the LDP's decision to refrain in the new draft from reviewing the status of the House of Councillors, which holds a disproportionately strong power. 一方、自民党は、参院の権限が強すぎる現状の見直しに踏み込まなかった。これは疑問である。
In the divided Diet--in which opposition parties hold a majority in the upper house--bills not supported by the opposition parties will not pass. In addition, the upper house's censure motions now virtually decide the fate of cabinet ministers. This destructive practice is causing turmoil in the Diet. 衆参ねじれ国会では、野党が反対する法案は成立しない。参院の問責決議が閣僚の生殺与奪権を事実上握るという悪(あ)しき慣習も国会を混乱させている。
Your Party has proposed a plan to introduce a single-chamber system by integrating the two houses, and a suprapartisan group of lawmakers has prepared a constitutional reform proposal aimed at introducing a single-chamber system. We believe the party and the group are both aware that one reason the Diet is not functioning sufficiently is the upper house's disproportionately strong power. みんなの党は衆参統合で一院制とする案を唱えている。超党派の議員連盟は一院制実現への憲法改正案をまとめた。国会の機能不全の要因に「強すぎる参院」があるとの認識からだろう。
However, it is difficult to achieve a single-chamber system by revising the Constitution. It would be more realistic to figure out the appropriate division of the roles of the two houses under the current bicameral system. だが、憲法改正で一院制を実現するのは、困難である。二院制は維持しつつ、衆参の役割分担を工夫することの方が現実的だ。
The LDP, Your Party and the Sunrise Party of Japan have all expressed their views on an ideal Constitution. However, the Democratic Party of Japan, which holds the reins of government, has been reluctant to join discussions over amending the Constitution. It is inexcusable for the ruling party to shun an issue concerning the foundation of the nation. 自民党やみんなの党、たちあがれ日本が、憲法に対する考え方を表明しているのに、政権党である民主党は、改正論議に及び腰だ。国家の基本に関する問題で「逃げ」の姿勢は許されない。
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Tackle vote disparity now ◆違憲状態解消が急務だ
In autumn, the Deliberative Councils on the Constitution in both houses--which had been dormant for more than four years--finally began creaking into action. 国会では昨年秋、４年以上休眠状態にあった衆参両院の憲法審査会が、ようやく動き始めた。
The lower house Research Commission on the Constitution has already clarified the main points regarding the amendment of the Constitution at meetings held from 2000 to 2005. The deliberative councils should begin concrete discussions on revising the Constitution soon. We hope the councils understand there is no time to waste. 憲法改正への主要な論点は、２０００～０５年の衆院憲法調査会で既に整理されている。スピード感を持って、具体的な改正論議に着手してもらいたい。
One serious problem regarding the Constitution is the lawsuits over the disparity in the weight of votes. In recent years, an increasing number of court rulings concluded that the disparity in the weight of votes in both lower and upper house elections are "unconstitutional" or in an "unconstitutional state," which means it could be unconstitutional if the situation is not changed within a certain period. However, discussions on reforming the electoral system have made no substantial progress. 深刻なのは、「１票の格差」を巡る訴訟で、衆参両院に「違憲」「違憲状態」の司法判断が相次いでいる問題だ。選挙制度改正論議が一向に進展していない。
Diet members should be ashamed of greeting the Constitution Day after leaving the matter for so long despite knowing the disparity problem has come so close to being unconstitutional. This irresponsible attitude is unforgivable in the nation's legislative body. 国会は、違憲状態を放置して憲法記念日を迎えたことを猛省すべきだ。立法府として無責任に過ぎる。
It is especially urgent for the lower house, many members of which are whispering about the possibility of a snap general election, to review the electoral system. 特に解散・総選挙の可能性がとりざたされる衆院は、選挙制度の見直しが急務である。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 3, 2012) （2012年5月3日02時31分 読売新聞）
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 2, 2012) Problems surround govt plan for renewable energy purchases 再生エネ発電 買い取り制には課題が多い（5月1日付・読売社説）
A feed-in tariff system for electricity from renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power will face many difficult problems. 太陽光や風力など再生可能エネルギーの買い取り制度は、多くの難題を抱えている。
An expert panel of the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry has made a proposal on prices at which electric power companies will purchase electricity generated by renewable energy under the system. 経済産業省の有識者委員会が、再生可能エネルギーで発電した電気を電力会社が買い取る価格の案をまとめた。
The government will officially decide on recommended rates within May, and power companies will become obliged to buy the electricity from July. 政府が５月中に正式決定し、７月から電力会社に買い取りが義務づけられる。
The proposed rates are 42 yen per kilowatt-hour for solar power, 23 yen for wind power and 27 yen for geothermal power. 価格案は、１キロ・ワット時当たり、太陽光が４２円、風力２３円、地熱２７円などとなっている。
The rates were calculated by adding appropriate profits to the usual costs of each generation method, the panel said. However, they are almost the same as the rates that were requested in advance by renewable energy producers and were higher than widely expected. 有識者委は、それぞれの発電方法で通常かかる費用に、適正な利益を上乗せしたと説明している。しかし、各発電業界が事前に示した要望額とほぼ同じで、大方の予想より割高と言える。
With the proposed prices, the panel apparently aims to promote the expansion of the renewable energy generation business by encouraging more companies to enter the field. However, the feed-in tariff system's design itself is precarious. 自然エネルギー発電への参入を後押しし、普及に弾みをつける狙いだろう。だが、制度設計そのものに危ういところがある。
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Higher electricity prices
The costs utility companies will shoulder to buy the renewable-energy electricity at high rates will be passed on through electricity rates in general. 電力会社が高値で買い入れた負担分は電気料金に上乗せされる。
The economy ministry estimates the resulting electricity charge hike for an ordinary household to be 70 yen to 100 yen per month in the first fiscal year, but it apparently will further increase along with the spread of power generation from renewable sources. 経産省は一般家庭の負担増は、初年度で月７０～１００円にとどまると試算しているが、普及につれて負担額は増え続ける。
Special measures will exempt steel and other industries that consume huge amounts of electricity from more than 80 percent of the increased portion of electricity rates. 鉄鋼など電力多消費産業には、料金上乗せ分の８割以上を減免する特例が適用される。
However, after a government subsidy to supplement the reduced portion of electricity revenues runs out, it will be passed on to other industries and ordinary households through their electricity rates. 料金の減収分を穴埋めする補助金が底をつくと、これも他業種や家庭の電気料金の上昇へと跳ね返る。
If the costs are not shared in a balanced manner, a sense of unfairness will spread among the public. コスト負担のバランスを欠けば不公平感が拡大するだろう。
Japan is now in an emergency situation because all but one of its nuclear power reactors have been suspended and thermal power generation requires an additional 3 trillion yen to 4 trillion yen a year for fuel costs. An increase in electricity costs must be avoided by all means. 今は、原子力発電所が停止し、火力発電の燃料費が年３兆～４兆円も余計にかかる非常時である。電力コストの上昇は、極力避けなければならない。
If the feed-in tariff system causes electricity rates to rise, the government will have to flexibly reduce the recommended rates. 再生可能エネルギー買い取りの影響で電力料金の上昇幅が拡大した場合、政府は買い取り価格を機動的に下げる必要があろう。
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Denuclearization not easy
In fact, Germany, which is more advanced in its feed-in tariff system than Japan, last year saw the added portion of electricity rates for an ordinary household exceed 1,200 yen per month. Facing public protest, the German government this spring lowered the recommended rates by 20 percent to 30 percent. The Spanish government in January suspended applying its feed-in tariff system to new renewable energy generation projects. 実際、買い取り制度で先行するドイツでは昨年、一般家庭の料金上乗せ分が月１２００円に膨らんだ。国民の反発を受け、今年春に買い取り価格を２～３割下げた。スペインでは今年１月、新規買い取りの凍結に追い込まれた。
The experience of other countries shows that it is difficult to maintain electricity generation from renewable sources as long as generation costs remain expensive, even if a government tries to support it with policy measures. 海外の事例は、再生可能エネルギーを政策支援で普及させても、発電コストが高いままでは維持が難しいことを示している。
Many expectations are voiced for industrial promotion and job growth related to new energy businesses such as the manufacture of solar panels, but the reality is grim. In Germany, a major solar panel maker and other firms went under one after another in the face of pressure from Chinese products with smaller price tags. 太陽光パネルなど新エネルギー関連の産業振興や雇用増を期待する声も多いが、現実は厳しい。ドイツでは、割安な中国製に押されて、大手パネルメーカーなどの破綻が相次いだ。
Solar and wind power generation have many difficulties regarding the procurement of land for sites and the durability of generation facilities. The road to independence from nuclear power generation is not an easy one. 太陽光、風力発電は、用地確保や発電設備の耐久性などに課題が多い。「脱原発依存」への道は決して平坦(へいたん)ではない。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, May 1, 2012) （2012年5月1日01時10分 読売新聞）
The Yomiuri Shimbun (May. 1, 2012) Govt, BOJ must expedite efforts to arrest deflation 追加金融緩和 政府と日銀は脱デフレを急げ（4月30日付・読売社説）
If the Bank of Japan simply continues taking monetary-easing measures in dribs and drabs, the country will remain without a clear prospect for defeating deflation. 日銀が小出しの金融緩和を繰り返しているだけでは、デフレ脱却への展望は開けまい。
The government and the central bank must step up their collaboration and work hard to restore the growth of the domestic economy. 政府と日銀は連携を強め、日本経済の成長回復に全力を挙げるべきだ。
The central bank decided to take additional monetary-easing policies, under which the total amount of its asset-purchase funds, used to purchase government bonds and other financial assets, will be raised to 70 trillion yen. This is a 5 trillion yen increase. 日銀が、国債などを買い入れる基金を５兆円増やし、７０兆円とする追加金融緩和策を決めた。
The measure is aimed at increasing the amount of funds circulating in the market to boost the country's economic recovery. 市場に出回る資金を増やし、景気回復を後押しする狙いだ。
This is the first time since Feb. 14 that the central bank has taken additional monetary-easing measures. On the previous occasion, the bank introduced as a guideline for price stabilization a 1 percent year-on-year rise in consumer prices, making it clear it was determined to continue following easy-money policies. 日銀の追加緩和策は２月１４日以来となる。前回は「物価安定の目途(めど)」を導入し、消費者物価の「１％上昇」を目指して金融緩和を続ける方針を打ち出した。
The market responded favorably to the move: The average stock price of the Tokyo Stock Exchange recovered to above 10,000 for some time. The bank's decision also helped halt the yen's further appreciation against the dollar. これが好感され、東京市場の平均株価は１万円台を一時回復し、円高にも歯止めがかかった。
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Bank was right to act
However, given that the measure's effects are gradually weakening, it was appropriate for the central bank to "shoot a second arrow." しかし、効果は薄れており、「二の矢」を放ったのは適切だ。
This time, the Bank of Japan presented projections for the rate of year-on-year increase in consumer prices: 0.3 percent for fiscal 2012 and 0.7 percent for fiscal 2013. 日銀は今回、今後の消費者物価上昇率の見通しを示し、２０１２年度がプラス０・３％、１３年度はプラス０・７％とした。
Although these figures were above its projections in January, they were still below 1 percent, which the central bank has set as a gauge to arrest deflation. The central bank thus acknowledged it would be difficult to defeat deflation anytime soon--a fact that is highly significant. 今年１月時点の見通しを上回ったとはいえ、日銀がデフレ脱却の目安とする１％に届かなかった。早期のデフレ脱却は難しいと、日銀が自ら認めた意味は重い。
If things stand as they are now, people's expectations for the country's economic recovery may fade away, shrinking the country's economic activities. このままでは景気回復への期待がしぼんでしまい、経済活動は萎縮しかねない。
The Bank of Japan also projected that the rise in consumer prices is highly likely to reach 1 percent in the not-too-distant future, as early as in fiscal 2014. The central bank should take a step forward and express its strong determination to defeat deflation. 日銀は１４年度以降「１％に遠からず達する可能性が高い」との見通しも示した。さらに踏み込み、デフレ克服を実現する強い決意を明らかにするべきだ。
Of course, the government bears a heavy responsibility in this respect. Past administrations failed to take effective measures to address various key issues, including the declining population and fiscal deficits, which resulted in declines in the country's growth power. It can be said that this is the major cause for the country's prolonged deflation. もちろん政府にも、重い責任がある。歴代政権は人口減少や財政赤字などの課題に有効な手を打たず、成長力低下を招いた。デフレ長期化の主因と言える。
The Cabinet of Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda set up a panel of Cabinet ministers to arrest deflation and started considering concrete measures for structural reforms of the country's economy. The move is highly commendable. 野田内閣が脱デフレに向けた関係閣僚会議を設け、経済構造改革について具体策の検討を開始したことは評価できる。
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Discussions must be broad
Bank of Japan Gov. Masaaki Shirakawa also is taking part in the panel as an observer. Panel members should discuss not only monetary policies but also fiscal policies and growth strategies. 日銀の白川方明総裁もオブザーバーで参加している。金融政策だけでなく、財政政策と成長戦略をあわせて議論する必要がある。
Calls have been growing for the Bank of Japan to adopt bold monetary-easing policies, mainly among Diet members with reservations about the consumption tax hike. These lawmakers argue that deflation must be stopped before the consumption tax is raised. But using such an argument as an expedient to avoid raising the consumption tax would be, we regret to say, a dereliction of their duty as politicians. 最近、消費税増税に慎重な議員を中心に、日銀に大胆な金融緩和を求める声が強まってきた。「増税よりデフレ退治が先」という主張も、消費税から逃げる方便だとすれば政治の責任放棄だ。
Some members of the Democratic Party of Japan and the Liberal Democratic Party are calling for revising the Bank of Japan Law. They argue the government should have the power to dismiss the central bank governor in order to pressure the bank to take anti-deflationary or other measures. 民主党や自民党の一部には、日銀法改正を求める意見もある。政府が総裁解任権を持ち、デフレ対策を迫るなどの内容だ。
There have not yet been any substantial moves toward revising the central bank law. But excessive political interference in the operations of the central bank would bring its independence into question, reducing confidence in the bank. 法改正の動きが具体化しつつあるわけではないが、政治が過剰介入すれば、中央銀行の独立性は揺らぎ、信認低下を招く恐れがある。
Any moves that would throw the country's market and economy into confusion must be avoided. 市場や経済を混乱させる事態は避けなければならない。
(From The Yomiuri Shimbun, April 30, 2012) （2012年4月30日01時18分 読売新聞）
