(Provisional Translation)

Statement by Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda
On Enactment of the Replenishment Support Special Measures Law

January 11, 2008
Japanese (Prime Minister of Japan and his Cabinet Official Website)

As of today, the Replenishment Support Special Measures Law was enacted.
The Government of Japan intends to formulate the implementation plan in the middle of next week and set sail Maritime Self-Defense Force vessels for the Indian Ocean by the end of January so as to resume the refueling activities at the earliest possible date.

Japan's prosperity can only be enjoyed in a peaceful and stable international community. It needs to actively cooperate with the "fight against terror" on its own judgment so as to contribute to the international community. The refueling activities are a demonstration of Japan's efforts to do the utmost within its capability. It is truly significant that Japan can now rejoin the "fight against terror".

It is important to implement humanitarian and reconstruction assistance as well as security and counter-terrorism measures so as to eradicate terrorism. The Government of Japan will continue to actively implement humanitarian and reconstruction assistance and contribute to the nation-building of Afghanistan in close coordination with the international community.

I hope to gain further understanding and support of the Japanese people for these efforts of the Government of Japan.

Related Information (Counter Terrorism)