Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held the fourth meeting of the Advisory Panel on National Security and Defense Capabilities at the Prime Minister's Office.

During the meeting, discussions were conducted after briefings by government officials on the current consideration of the National Security Strategy.

The Prime Minister said in his opening address,

"I would like to thank the distinguished participants for attending the meeting of the Advisory Panel on National Security and Defense Capabilities today.
In past meetings, Panel members have deepened their discussion on the future of the National Security Strategy. Today, I look forward to once again hearing your opinions firsthand, and accelerate the work of the Government to formulate the strategy.  
Since I last spoke at the meeting of the Advisory Panel last month, I have taken various opportunities, including the General Debate at the United Nations General Assembly and the East Asia Summit, to communicate to the world that Japan will bear the flag of "Proactive Contribution to Peace" based on a belief in international cooperation, and make further contribution to peace, stability and prosperity of the world. In response, the leaders expressed their support and expectations.
In the coming months, the Government will elaborate policies to be implemented in the spirit of "proactive contribution to peace," including through the process of developing the National Security Strategy.
Needless to say, our will and capacity to defend the peace and independence of our nation will be materialized by our defense capabilities. With a view to identifying  defense capabilities that can adequately respond to the present situation, and to maintaining and developing such capabilities, the Government will review the National Defense Program Guidelines by the end of the year. I would be very grateful if the distinguished experts could offer your insights on this point as well.
I sincerely hope that the distinguished experts will continue to engage in intensive discussions and offer us your insights, drawing upon your knowledge and experiences on diplomatic and security policy. Thank you very much."