Statement of Mr. Sadakazu Tanigaki, Minister of Finance, Japan
On the adoption of the IMF Governors' resolution on quota and voice reform
Monday, September 18th 2006
I welcome the news that the IMF Governors' resolution on quota and voice reform was adopted today with 90.6% support. I praise the membership as a whole for displaying the IMF's ability to reform itself. I pay high respect to Mr. de Rato, IMF Managing Director, the staff, fellow Governors and the Executive Directors for their efforts leading to this historic decision.
I have been pointing out that the IMF will not be able to continue to play a legitimate role in the world community, unless its governance structure is updated to reflect the realities of the world economy. With today's decision, members committed themselves to achieving such reform within two years at the maximum, and to carrying out necessary work expeditiously. Although it is highly valuable in itself, the reform will not be truly meaningful without accomplishing the total package by resolving remaining issues.
Japan will participate pro-actively in the upcoming discussions on details of the reform, and continue to play a leading role.
[ Japanese ]