(Provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only)
I have an announcement regarding the appointment of Special Advisers to the Minister of Defense. Today, I appointed LTG(ret) BANSHO Koichiro, former Commanding General of the Western Army, Ground Self-Defense Force, and LtGen(ret) HANZAWA Takahiko, former Commander of the Air Training Command, Air Self-Defense Force, as Special Advisers to the Minister of Defense. Both of them gained extensive experience in the field when they were in active service. After retirement, they have conducted research on Japan’s defense policy and the defense strategies of the U.S. and other countries, and possess a broad range of knowledge on security. I expect that Special Advisers Bansho and Hanzawa will draw upon the wealth of knowledge and experience they have accumulated in giving me candid advice regarding the fundamental reinforcement of Japan’s defense capabilities and the future of the Self-Defense Forces.