Group 1 - The increase in foreign residents in Japan, which reached approximately 3.7 million by the end of last year, represents an 11% rise, the largest since records began in 2013, is expected to improve tax revenue and social insurance contributions, thereby enhancing the fiscal balance and living standards for Japanese citizens [1] - Japan's total population is projected to decline to 120.65 million in 2024, a decrease of about 908,000 from the previous year, marking a historical low, with the working-age population (ages 15-64) at approximately 71.24 million, accounting for about 59% of the total population [1] - The aging population and declining birth rates in Japan necessitate the acceleration of foreign labor recruitment, shifting initial concerns to a more relaxed immigration stance [1] Group 2 - A survey indicated that 76% of respondents support the increase of foreign workers, with 6% strongly agreeing and 70% agreeing, suggesting that foreign workers can alleviate shortages in goods and services and contribute new ideas to enhance productivity [2] - Empirical research shows that foreign workers and Japanese workers have a complementary relationship, with no negative impact on Japanese workers' wages or unemployment rates [2] - The majority of foreign residents are young and contribute more in taxes and insurance than they receive in benefits, positively affecting Japan's fiscal balance [2] - The current foreign-born population in Japan is only 3%, significantly lower than the OECD average of 11%, indicating potential challenges as this ratio increases over time [2] - Establishing long-term institutional arrangements and multicultural coexistence policies is deemed essential for sustainable integration of diverse backgrounds in society [2]