Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attended the first meeting of the Advisory Council on Domestic and Overseas Communication concerning Territory and Sovereignty at the Prime Minister's Office.

The Prime Minister said in his address,

"The security situation in the Asia-Pacific region is becoming ever more perilous. Within this situation, I would like to extend my gratitude for the participation of so many people with a deep knowledge of each field in the Advisory Council on Domestic and Overseas Communication concerning Territory and Sovereignty, a meeting led by Minister Yamamoto, the first appointee to the position of Minister in charge of Territorial Issues in any Cabinet throughout history. 
As provocations related to our territory and sovereignty continue, the Abe Cabinet is resolved to firmly protect Japan's territory.
To that end, it goes without saying, but it is important to diffuse correct understanding about our position and way of thinking domestically and overseas. I want the Minister in charge of Territorial Issues to thoroughly work together with the Minister for Foreign Affairs, who handles foreign affairs policy, and take up the role of effectively communicating domestically and overseas.
At my meeting with President Obama during my visit to the United States in February, we shared the recognition that Japan and the United States would cooperate to uphold the principle of freedom of the seas and build an order based on laws and grounded in the principles of law rather than force.
During my policy speech and press conference in Washington, DC, I explained to the audience and press the basic policy of Japan that I have just stated, our way of thinking about Japan's territory, and our way of thinking about relations with neighboring countries.
This is just one example. I think that moving forward, Japan must further enhance efforts to explain the correct facts and our positions, and gain understanding.
Based on the aforementioned viewpoint, I want to compile the insight and experiences of everyone gathered here today. I would like for there to be debate on how Japan should communicate. I expect frank opinions from everyone."