DJ: Aso Says Kuroda Would Steer Policy In Line With Joint Statement

TOKYO--Japan's finance minister said Tuesday he expects Bank of Japan governor nominee Haruhiko Kuroda would handle monetary policy in line with a joint pact signed earlier this year by the government and the central bank pledging efforts to resuscitate the nation's long-sluggish economy.

"Mr. Kuroda is saying that if he becomes governor, he will steer policy in the direction set by the joint statement," Finance Minister Taro Aso said at a press conference when asked about Mr. Kuroda's confirmation hearing in parliament on Monday.

Mr. Aso also reiterated that Japan's government plans to nominate an "appropriate person" as a replacement for Mr. Kuroda, who will vacate his post as president of the Asian Development Bank. The government will likely announce a Japanese candidate for the top post of the regional lender after Mr. Kuroda officially steps down, Mr. Aso said.

The ADB has already made public that Mr. Kuroda has submitted his resignation from the bank, effective March 18.