[Word of mouth] - Update - comments on government in India and Japan - Brief Article

Business Asia, August, 2002

"I wish to emphasise my unflinching commitment to the principle of secularism, which is the cornerstone of our nationhood."

New Indian president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in his inauguration speech. He said he would "work for bringing about unity of minds among divergent traditions" of India.

"It's Koizumi's lack of ability, and irresponsibility for not admitting that lack, that has created this situation."

Yukio Hatoyama, the head of the main opposition Democratic Party of Japan, on why opposition parties bought a no-confidence vote in parliament against Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi late last month.