Outgoing Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo has expressed his gratitude to the public, issuing a statement as his cabinet resigned on Wednesday.

Reflecting on his nearly eight years in office, he said he has made all-out efforts to address both domestic and diplomatic challenges during his term. He said some of the goals were achieved, while many others were unfortunately not.

Prime Minister Abe Shinzo has thanked all the members of the public and asked them to support his successor Suga Yoshihide.

Abe spoke to reporters when he entered the prime minister's office shortly before 9 a.m. on Wednesday.