Over 30 years have passed since Okinawa was returned to Japan on May 15, 1972. During this period the government has set forth Okinawa Promotion and Development Plans three times, invested a total of approximately ¥7 trillion, and worked to close the gap with the mainland especially in the area of social infrastructure. Thanks to the efforts of the prefecture and other local governments, as well as its people, Okinawa has steadily developed.
However, as can be clearly seen from prefectural income per capita on the level with only 70 percent of the national average and from the high unemployment rate, socioeconomic conditions in Okinawa are difficult. Along with the realignment, consolidation, and reduction of USFJ(U.S. Forces in Japan) facilities and areas, these are important political issues for the Cabinet to address.
Under the strong leadership of the Prime Minister and the Minister of State for Okinawa and Northern Territories Affairs, the Cabinet Office is comprehensively promoting measures for Okinawa, including ongoing deliberations in the Okinawa Policy Council (founded September 1996) and development and promotion policies involving the entire government.