JSDF dispatched to the Middle East Visited Defense Minister Kono Dispatch base, etc.December 29 0:59
Following the decision to dispatch the Self-Defense Forces to the Middle East, Defense Minister Kono visited Djibouti in eastern Africa, inspected bases for patrol aircraft to be dispatched, and said, `` In cooperation with the international community, freedom of navigation was increased. We will collect information so that it can be protected. "
In order to strengthen the information gathering system necessary to ensure the safety of vessels related to Japan in the Middle East, the government will use P3C patrol aircraft to combat piracy in the Gulf of Aden, based in Djibouti in eastern Africa, and use one patrol vessel. Decided to send a new.
In response to this, Minister Kono visited the base of the SDF in the fight against piracy in Djibouti on January 28, Japan, and inspected the activities of P3C patrol aircraft and the living environment of the member camp.
Prior to the inspection, Minister Kono met with Djibouti's Defense Minister Burhan to explain the contents of the dispatch of the SDF and seek understanding.
Minister Kono told reporters, "We will make every possible effort to ensure the safety of Japanese-affiliated vessels in the Middle East. The Gulf of Aden is a very important sea lane for Japan's maritime transport, and in cooperation with the international community, We will collect the necessary information to ensure freedom of navigation. "