In the past, U.S. slowdowns have typically been associated with slowdowns in Latin America. Indeed, often the slowdowns in Latin America were much sharper than in the United States. One of the most famous examples of this effect occurred during the U.S. economic downturn of the early 1980s, which was associated with high U.S. interest rates.
* * *  Introduction It is my pleasure to have the opportunity today to exchange views with leaders in administrative, financial, and economic areas in Akita Prefecture, which is taking place online due to the continuing impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).