Full debate kicked off Thursday on bills covering updated Japan-U.S. defense cooperation guidelines with Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi stressing that the legislation will contribute to Japan's peace and security.
"At this opportunity, we must clarify the significance of the Japan-U.S. Security Treaty and establish necessary laws to enable bilateral cooperation to be undertaken effectively," Obuchi told the Lower House Special Committee on Guidelines for Japan-U.S. Defense Cooperation.
Japan's cooperation with the U.S. under the bills will be conducted within the framework of the bilateral security pact, Obuchi added.