November 11, 2011

　
Dear Readers,
　

In accordance with the issuance of Defense Minister’s preparatory directive regarding the UN Peace Keeping Operation (PKO) in South Sudan, I authorized my preparatory notice. Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) have conducted overseas activities in support of UN PKO and disaster relief efforts employing an efficient deployment method based on the needs of the area of operation and the characteristics of the mission. Since we are not as familiar with Africa, I believe it is important to remind ourselves of our basics in the preparation of the deployment with strong determination and responsibility in order to achieve our goals as the representative of Japan.

In addition to the mission in South Sudan, JSDF will conduct a joint exercise in Kyushu and Southwest Islands region from November 14 to 18. I am convinced that this joint exercise involving all component service forces will facilitate the establishment of the Dynamic Defense Force posture stated in the National Defense Program Guideline, and will help our future defense capability building.

Meanwhile, I visited Ground Self-Defense Force Camp Fukushima recently. The unit in Fukushima is still conducting the nuclear disaster response. We will keep our readiness to respond to unexpected emergency as we continue to help the local needs such as assistance to the decontamination activity.

A number of men and women in JSDF are conducting missions around the clock in areas in and out of the country. As we remind ourselves of our origin as JSDF, we will respond today and prepare for tomorrow. We are determined to continue to do our very best for the safety and security of the people of Japan.

　
Regards,
　

GEN Ryoichi Oriki

General, Japan Ground Self-Defense Force

Chief of Staff, Joint Staff, Japan Self-Defense Forces