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Prime Minister Yoshiro Mori delivered an address at the graduation ceremony of the National Defense Academy of Japan, located in Yokosuka, Kanagawa Prefecture. The Prime Minister, commander in chief of the Self-Defense Forces, said, "As you take up the noble calling of defending the nation as officers in this memorable year marking the beginning of the twenty-first century, I have great hopes that through your activities you will continue to contribute to building up a peaceful Japan, and world, blessed with a rich environment, in the twenty-first century. I would like to see you do your very best to further the ideal of an SDF allied with the people. The essential mission of the SDF is to protect the nation's peace and independence and maintain its security. The understanding and active support and cooperation of the people are essential to the success of this mission." He added, "I hope that you will acquire true leadership ability. I expect you to become commanders imbued with rich human qualities who can inspire the loyalty of subordinates and strengthen their solidarity, even in trying circumstances through constant self-cultivation"
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