 |
|
 |
 |
 | |
 | |
|
Fleet Review of the Self-Defense Forces
|
|
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attended a fleet review of the Self-Defense Forces (SDF). As an event commemorating the establishment of the SDF, the fleet review is conducted with the purpose of attaining further understanding and trust of the people toward SDF and their understanding toward maritime defense. This event marked the 25th one of its kind.
SDF review units departed from ports along the coast of Tokyo Bay with general invitees and others aboard. After the vessels amassed in Sagami Bay after 11:00 a.m., Prime Minister Abe arrived on the flight deck of the escort ship "Kurama" via helicopter and received the salute of a guard of honor. While the review units and units undergoing review navigated past each other in a crossing formation, the reviewers, along with Mr. Fumio Kyuma, the Minister of State for Defense, reviewed 48 vessels that included escort ships, submarines, and minesweepers. Afterwards, Prime Minister Abe observed a training performed by the units. In his address to senior officials of the SDF, Prime Minister Abe said, "It is a pressing issue for the government to further enhance and strengthen our crisis management system and to take initiative to proactively make efforts to ensure the peace and stability of the international community. As such, I will conduct the necessary provisions, such as the transition of the Japan Defense Agency into a ministry and the designation of international peace activities as one of the essential duties of the SDF. The charge for the defense of the nation and the safety of the people's lives and property rests on your shoulders. I ask everyone gathered here today to profoundly realize such a responsibility and perform your duties unfailingly, while engaging in your rigorous day-to-day training, with confidence and pride in your assignments."
|