Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi stressed Wednesday that the successful launch of a coalition government comprising his Liberal Democratic Party, the Liberal Party and New Komeito depends on his re-election as LDP president.

Speaking at the Nippon Press Center in Tokyo, Obuchi also said he plans to discuss the inheritance tax during the next ordinary Diet session and hopes to lower the maximum rate of 70 percent.

"Japan should get to work on inheritance tax reform," he said. "I think the people of Japan have a strong demand for a rate cut."