Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attended a reception for the Anniversary of the Establishment of the Self-Defense Forces held in Tokyo.

The Prime Minister said in his address,

"Thank you for attending the reception for the Anniversary of the Establishment of the Self-Defense Forces today. As the Commander-in-Chief of the Japan Self-Defense Forces, I would like to express my gratitude. Many people who support the Self-Defense Forces have gathered here today. We are also honored to have Ambassadors and defense attachés from all over the world in attendance. Welcome to all of you.
The Self-Defense Forces were established on July 1, 1954. I was born two months and twenty days later. In other words, my 59 years coincides with the 59 years of the Self-Defense Forces. I mentioned the date July 1 just now, but we celebrate the Anniversary of the Establishment of the Self-Defense Forces on November 1. This is because there are many typhoons in July, August, and September, and to allow the Self-Defense Forces to be mobilized for rescue efforts as part of disaster relief and other operations. From the very beginning it was decided that this anniversary would be celebrated in November. Indeed, from that era onward, the Self-Defense Forces have served the public.
Since then, the Self-Defense Forces have worked tirelessly over the past 59 years, without boasting about their contributions, to protect the lives and property of the people, as well as Japan's territorial land, sea, and air, and Japan's pride. A recent public opinion survey shows a high level of public support for the day to day activities of the Self-Defense Forces, with 91% of the respondents saying that they have a favorable view of them. Furthermore, the survey shows that among public institutions, the Self-Defense Forces are considered to be the most trustworthy..
The Self-Defense Forces are now working all over the world for peace and prosperity. To date, the total of 50,000 members of the Self-Defense Forces have participated in 30 missions, contributing to peacekeeping activities overseas. The Abe administration, under the flag of proactive contributions to peace, are committed to making more proactive contributions to global peace and prosperity. Today, we have the attendance of Ambassadors, Ministers, and defense attachés from diplomatic corps representing many countries. Japan is keen to walk hand-in-hand with all of you and continue to make contributions for global prosperity, peace, and stability.
This year I took a trip to Djibouti. The temperature outside during mid-day was 50 degrees Celsius. In this scorching hot land, activities are being conducted to counter piracy or terrorist activities, for example. I hope that the Self-Defense Forces will continue to enjoy the support and understanding of the people, and to work for the people of Japan and the world. I would like to close my remarks by asking for your continued understanding and support for the Self-Defense Forces."