A proposal on a new permanent antipiracy law that would enhance the Maritime Self-Defense Force's rules of engagement off Somalia got the green light Wednesday by a ruling bloc policy panel.
The draft is likely to be approved by the Cabinet as early as March 13 and submitted to the Diet by month's end.
"A new law must be approved as soon as possible," former Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, who cochairs the antipiracy panel of the Liberal Democratic Party-New Komeito ruling coalition, told reporters.