How do some analysts expect on Japanese economy growth in 2001? [originaltext]

The Japanese economy is expected to register growth this year of no more than one percent. In fact, some analysts call that an optimistic projection. They point to stock market weakness and a recent slowdown that could cause 2001 growth to be negative. Japan’s economy has been either stagnant or in recession for much of the past ten years.
     Since Asia’s financial crisis four years ago, Japan has been seeking to avoid deflation, an actual decline in the price level. In an effort to boost economic activity, the Japanese central bank has had interest rates at or near zero. And still, the economy has failed to grow.