[Unnamed Speaker]

¶ 01 We have sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, and industry. These are the lifelines of the economy. We must provide the necessary support to move these sectors forward. The Economic Surveillance Committee is working on this. Along with that committee, four subcommittees have been established. Among these is a subcommittee, chaired by the Hon. Prime Minister, to ensure the uninterrupted functioning of the public service.

¶ 02 Likewise, regarding the supply of energy, energy has become the lifeblood of our economy. Not only our country, but the whole world is driven forward by energy. A subcommittee has been set up to ensure an uninterrupted supply of energy to the people. Similarly, a subcommittee has been established for the maintenance of essential services.

¶ 03 Furthermore, to determine how to continue welfare activities and in what manner welfare should be carried forward, a Welfare Support Committee has been established. It has been set up to decide what kind of assistance program should be implemented for the targeted groups—especially those who could be vulnerable economically—and for the poor people of this country.

¶ 04 The Central Bank meets every other day to discuss the changes taking place in the economy, as well as global changes, and to consider how we should proceed.

¶ 05 Finally, I must say this. We are facing a serious situation. We have a responsibility towards the lives of 22 million people. We need to maintain essential services. We must provide all necessary support to ensure that people’s lives continue smoothly. In such a situation, rather than making accusations about fuel queues, gas shortages, being unable to celebrate the New Year, being unable to do anything, and the economy collapsing with people losing their footing, the Opposition has a responsibility to act with greater importance, greater accountability, and greater dignity. I remind everyone to come together for that purpose, and with that, I conclude.

¶ 06 Thank you.