country "bloom" despite a flagging economy and political disputes which have seen his support wilt. A smiling Fukuda spoke at a government-hosted traditional cherry-blossom party with about 10,000 guests including actors and TV personalities.
"Japan has many problems, but I would like to clean them up. I want to make Japan full of cherry blossoms like these," he said as he surveyed the deep pink blossoms in full bloom.
"Just like today's nice weather, we need to firm up Japan. I am doing my best to solidify its foundation," added Fukuda.
His comments come just days after ending nearly a month of political stalemate with the opposition party over a new governor to head the Bank of Japan.
Earlier this week Fukuda traded angry accusations with his main political rival Ichiro Ozawa, saying he was abusing the opposition's power by refusing to approve key legislation.
Japan is also facing gloomy economic prospects amid soaring costs, fears of a global economic slowdown and a U.S. recession stemming from credit market turmoil.
"Prices are rising but that can't be helped. We need to endure that and it is important to break through by being creative," Fukuda said.
The 72-year-old posed for pictures flanked by popular young female television stars while he struggles to shore up public approval.
Support for Fukuda's cabinet plunged 6.8 points from mid-March to 26.6 percent, the lowest level since he took office last September, a poll conducted by Kyodo News showed last week.
The approval rating came close to the 25.3 percent in September last year for the Cabinet of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe soon after he announced his intention to resign.
