(Provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only)
Early this evening, the second meeting of the Promotion HQ for Transformation of Defense Capabilities will be held. Today, we plan to discuss, first, the security environment surrounding Japan, and second, the FY2025 supplementary budget. In revising the three strategic documents, it is critically important to analyze the security environment and international situation, which will serve as a basis for future deliberations. Regarding the rapidly and complexly changing security environment, we intend to not simply review the facts, but also discuss the underlying intentions and the impact on Japan. Building on this discussion, we will carefully consider what specific measures under what kinds of strategies Japan needs to pursue. As for the FY2025 supplementary budget, the draft budget is currently being finalized at the ministry. Today, we will be briefed about its progress and discuss efforts to accelerate the fundamental reinforcement of Japan’s defense capabilities.