Honoring the Life of Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe
Today, the world lost a great leader. Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s life was violently taken from him. Japan – a country known for their peace constitution, strong allyship, and global leadership position – mourns not only the loss of a great leader, but also the loss of peace, stability, and humanity that this type of violence brings.
The markers of a great leader are universal – vision, advocacy, and relentless dedication. These are attributes that Abe personified, and for which political and private sector leaders will remember him. Abe cared deeply for the people of Japan and fought tirelessly for what he believed would best position the country. Abe’s innovative thinking was critical to the development of an economic strategy that will set him apart as a political great. State Street benefited from the policies that Abe put in place during his nine years as Prime Minister. His pro-business approach paved the way for State Street’s growth in Tokyo and Fukuoka, and further strengthened our strong footprint in the region.
Today, I stand not only with global leaders who mourn and honor Abe; but with our 450 employees in Japan. I was a very young child when the United States grappled with the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, but I can still remember the ongoing shock and reverberations that went through our collective consciousness. Please know that we stand with you, and together we will move forward.
Very well said, Ron. I would like to hope that it does not mark a permanent shift in the remarkably peaceful political environment in Japan and yet feel that something is lost forever.