By Elizabeth Naumczyk.
On the 24th of June, 2016 The Ambassador of Japan H.E. Mr. Hiroshi Inomata hosted a reception to commemorate the Self-Defense Forces Day at his residence.
The event was attended by representatives of the diplomatic community, the armed forces and civil society. Despite the inclement weather guests found themselves in a welcoming and convivial environment sheltered from the elements.
The Ambassador welcomed guests and also made reference to the 1st of July 2016 which will mark the 62nd anniversary of the Japanese Self-Defense Forces. Japan since the end of WWII has been committed not only to working to secure peace in the world but also in assisting in the development of the international community as “a peace-loving nation”.
The Ambassador said Japan has gained the trust and confidence of the international community through activities such as the Official Development Assistance (ODA), providing financial assistance to developing nations worldwide.
Japan has taken the policy of “Proactive Contribution to Peace” based on the principle of international cooperation, introduced by the Abe Administration in December, 2013.
“The legislation for Peace and Security came into effect in March this year. The new security legislation has historical significance in further ensuring the peace and security of Japan through making more proactive contributions to the peace and stability of the region and the international community.”
A video in the room called Peace – for tomorrow’s Smile (available on You-Tube) explained the destabilizing factors and security challenges in the Asia-Pacific region. The aim of the video is to provide a better understanding of the recent legislation on Peace and Security including its guidelines.
The Ambassador clarified any misunderstandings about what had occurred regarding the above developments. Japan has in no way changed its Constitution to become a military power and its Self-Defense Forces are limited to participating in UN peace-keeping operations. They will not engage in combat cooperation on any foreign soil except in self-defense.
Japan is ready to respond to changes occurring in the global security environment, using diplomacy and active participation in international peace keeping activities.
Since 1992 when the Government dispatched the Japan Self-Defense Forces to Cambodia for the first time, the country has participated in some thirty international peace cooperation missions, including its current engagement in South Sudan.
The Ambassador then referred specifically to its cooperation with the Netherlands in Iraq and Cambodia. Japan is also deploying Maritime Self-Defense vessels and patrol aircrafts for conducting anti-piracy activities off the coast of Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden in cooperation with other countries. Japan intends to strengthen cooperation with the European Union (EU), NATO and European countries.
In November, 2015 the Prime Minister of The Netherlands Rutte met Prime Minister Abe in Japan whereby both leaders decided to characterize the Japan-Netherlands relations as a “Strategic Partnership for Sustainable Peace and Prosperity”. They also reaffirmed that both countries will strengthen their security and defense cooperation in this regard.
“We are looking forward to future opportunities to cooperate with the Netherlands for the sake of peace and stability in the world, as we share the fundamental values of freedom, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.”
After proposing a toast to a peaceful and prosperous future, guests were invited to a delicious Japanese buffet.
