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Priorities for Japan's Defense Policy

Priorities for Japan's Defense Policy

Following last December’s election victory by the Liberal Democratic Party, its leader, Abe Shinzō, started his second term as prime minister (having previously held the post for a year in 2006–7). Among the first actions he took after forming his cabinet was to call for a review of Japan’s security and defense policies. 

Yoshihasa Hayashi

Minister of Agriculture- Japan to start TPP access negotiations afte upper house elections

On a TV show on 18 January, the Minster of Agriculture Yoshimasa Hayashi said he believes that Japan's participation will be crucial for the success of the TPP. He believes that, as good and trusted partner, the U.S. will grant necessary exceptions from tariff reductions, notably for rice. According to Hayashi, Japan will be in a position to take a lead in the discussions after this summers election to the House of Councilors, scheduled for July. 

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