[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (2000, Book I)] [June 20, 2000] [Page 1195] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]Statement on the Death of Former Prime Minister Noboru Takeshita of Japan June 20, 2000 I was saddened to learn of the death of former Prime Minister Noboru Takeshita and wish to extend my condolences to his wife, Naoko, his daughters, and the Japanese people. Mr. Takeshita was a strong supporter of close U.S.-Japan relations and a good friend of the United States.