The 89th session of the Council for Science and Technology Policy (CSTP) was held at the Prime Minister's Office on March 9, 2010. At this session, three agenda items were discussed. First, the CSTP determined the core researchers, their research subjects and their Operations Support Institutions of the Funding Program for World-Leading Innovative R&D on Science and Technology. Its views on this matter will be conveyed to the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. Accordingly, the Funding Program for World-Leading Innovative R&D on Science and Technology will start.

In addition, an exchange of opinions was held on major immediate challenges related to science and technology policy, in order to prepare for the formulation of an action plan for the implementation of key policy measures, which is a new approach to budget formulation. The science and technology budget for fiscal 2011 will be formulated based on the discussions held at this session.

Prime Minister Hatoyama concluded the session by commenting as follows: “The Funding Program for World-Leading Innovative R&D on Science and Technology has considerable substance despite the limited budget. I would like to ask the relevant ministers to do their best to implement this program. “It is monumental that challenges have been identified in preparation for the formulation of an action plan. The action plan will comprise life innovation and green innovation as its cores, and it is important to consider how to position these innovations as the pillars of Japan’s growth strategy. I would like you to ensure that budget formulation will not be undermined by bureaucratic factionalism. “In relation to science and technology diplomacy, we must also put into practice an Asian Science Technology Area initiative, which was mentioned in today’s session. Singapore, for example, has drawn intellectual talent from all over the world. We should also resolve to establish Japan as a global science and technology center through such an initiative. “Until now, Japan has achieved growth based on science and technology. Science and technology will continue to be the foundation of Japan’s growth. I would like you to believe in this and do your best.”