This is a speech by former Prime Minister Noda of Japan, who pays tribute to former Prime Minister Abe, who was assassinated in 2023. Noda recalls his political rivalry and friendship with Abe, and praises his achievements, challenges and kindness. Noda also apologizes for mocking Abe's illness in the past, and expresses his regret for losing a great leader. Noda urges the parliament to protect free speech and democracy, and to honor Abe's legacy by continuing to debate and improve the nation. Noda ends his speech by offering his condolences to Abe's spirit.
Here are some key facts extracted from the text. I have numbered them and kept them short sentences.
1. Former Prime Minister Noda of the Constitutional Democratic Party gave a speech to the Diet in memory of former Prime Minister Abe, who was shot and killed on August 8th, 2023.
2. Former Prime Minister Noda served as Prime Minister immediately before the second Abe administration, and attended Abe's state funeral.
3. Former Prime Minister Abe was the youngest Prime Minister in Japan's post-war history, and served for a total of 3,188 days in office, visiting 196 countries and regions and holding 1,187 meetings.
4. Former Prime Minister Abe established close relationships with two different U.S. presidents, Obama and Trump, and persuaded Obama to visit Hiroshima.
5. Former Prime Minister Abe had a chronic illness that forced him to resign from his first administration, but he recovered and returned to power in 2012.
6. Former Prime Minister Noda apologized to Abe for making fun of his illness during the 2012 election campaign, and expressed his respect and gratitude for his work as Prime Minister.
7. Former Prime Minister Noda appealed to the Diet members to protect free speech, engage in constructive debate, and prevent violence and terrorism that threaten democracy.