[Provisional translation]
(Reporter)
I am Hirouchi, with Kyodo. Thank you. I would like to ask about the act to establish a national intelligence council. The act, which aims to strengthen Japan’s control tower function for intelligence, was passed by the House of Councillors with the support of the Liberal Democratic Party, the Japan Innovation Party, the Democratic Party for the People, and others, and was enacted. While some opposition parties raised concerns about possible infringements on privacy, could you share your thoughts on the enactment of the act and its significance?
During the deliberations on the act, you also stated that this was “a first step.” How do you intend to approach issues that were debated during those deliberations, including the enactment of anti-espionage legislation and the establishment of a foreign intelligence agency?
(Prime Minister Takaichi)
This act has been one of the priorities I emphasized in my campaign pledges during both of the Liberal Democratic Party presidential elections held over the past two years. It was also included in the Liberal Democratic Party’s manifesto for this year’s House of Representatives election.
With the broad understanding of the various parties and factions, we have been able to enact this act. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all those involved.
This act is intended to strengthen the foundations of Japan’s intelligence capabilities in an increasingly complex and severe international environment. By enhancing our information capabilities, it will enable us to respond effectively to the difficult challenges we face, protect the safety and security of the people, and safeguard Japan’s national interests.
During the Diet deliberations, some concerns were raised regarding issues such as privacy. However, we have carefully explained that this act governs the relationships among administrative agencies and therefore does not increase such risks.
With regard to a national intelligence council and a national intelligence bureau, we will operate them in light of the supplementary resolutions adopted by both Houses of the Diet.
We have consistently stated that this act represents the first step in reforms to strengthen Japan's intelligence functions. While I am not in a position at this time to comment on the specific details of other intelligence-related measures, we will continue to listen carefully to a wide range of views and proceed with our deliberations in a thorough and steady manner, addressing each issue one by one. That’s all from me. Thank you.