Vice Gov Lacbain, SSEAP National Leader

Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi shakes the hand of Zambales Vice Governor Ramon G. Lacbain II as national leader of the Philippine delegation during the courtesy call of all national leaders, youth leaders and assistant youth leaders of the 32nd Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Program (SSEAYP). SSEAYP is an annual event sponsored by the Japanese government being participated by youth delegates coming from Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Brunei Darussalam, Philippines, Indonesia, Cambodia, Myanmar, Singapore, Laos and Japan.

The SSEAYP is a joint program inaugurated by Japan and the ten countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The program has been conducted annually since its inauguration and this year marks the 32nd voyage. Approximately 280 youths from ASEAN countries and approximately 40 youths from Japan will travel for around 50 days on the "Ship for Southeast Asian Youth," visiting Japan and several Southeast Asian nations. The purpose of the program is to promote friendship and mutual understanding among the youths through spending time together and engaging in various exchange activities both on board and in the countries they visit.

Prime Minister Koizumi shook hands with the representatives from each participating country, and following the greeting by a representative of the youths participating in the program, offered his words of encouragement saying, "I hope you all will harness this valuable experience to give your best efforts for the development of your nation, as well as to further develop the friendly relations with Japan."