The Political/Economic Section focuses its activities on reporting trends and developments (political, economic, scientific) in the district-the second most important region in Japan after Tokyo-which are of relevance to U.S. interests. Specifically, the section aims at providing critical "real world" information and analysis to Washington policy makers to help them assess, craft, and implement policy towards Japan. Specific areas of reporting responsibility include second phase construction of the new Kansai International Airport (KIX), which opened in September 1994, along with issues related to U.S. carrier access problems. Another focus is Kobe's efforts to reconstruct following the January 1995 magnitude 7.2 earthquake which totally or partially destroyed 200,000 residences. We also follow closely implementation of the Large Scale Retail Store Law. More broadly, the section reports on political and economic developments in our district, highlighting their significance for U.S. interests.