Regarding whether to allow the export of the next-generation fighter jet, which is being jointly developed with the UK and Italy, to third countries, the New Komeito Party is cautious, taking into account Prime Minister Kishida's request in the Diet to understand the need for export. Our policy is to determine our response based on whether the government is softening its stance and whether we can put a certain brake on it.
Regarding the export of defense equipment jointly developed with other countries, such as the next generation of fighter jets, to third countries, Prime Minister Kishida answered in the Diet on the 5th that if Japan alone cannot export, it will hinder Japan's defense. On the 6th, he asked for understanding of the necessity of exporting, saying, ``It will lead to the realization of a favorable security environment in order to protect the lives and livelihoods of the people, which will be in the national interest.''
Regarding this, Komeito's representative Komeito commented, ``It was a good opportunity to make a polite message during the debate in the Diet,'' and Takagi, Chairman of the Political Affairs Research Council, also agreed to gather opinions within the party in favor of allowing exports. He has shown that he wants to do more, and has softened his cautious stance up until now.
However, there is a deep-rooted opinion within the party that even if exports are allowed, strict limits are needed, and the government and Liberal Democratic Party are considering options such as narrowing down the countries to which exports are made and subjecting them to strict screening.
The New Komeito Party plans to hold a meeting of the Expanded Diplomacy and Security Commission on the 7th to exchange opinions and decide on a response based on whether a certain degree of restraint can be put in place.