The New Nation - Internet Edition

AP, Tokyo

Increasingly unpopular Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso rejected calls Tuesday for his resignation, insisting he needs to steer the world's second-largest economy out of recession.

Aso's support now stands at just 20 percent amid growing public frustration over his handling of the sluggish economy, but he said the nation must be patient.

"I am confident that the ruling party and I can implement effective measures to boost the economy," said Aso, who is president of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party.