Liberal Democratic Party and New Komeito lawmakers agreed Tuesday to a rigorous approval process that would apply under envisioned changes to rules governing arms exports, addressing fears that the country will undermine its pacifist status by loosening long-held restrictions on such trade.

The lawmakers endorsed the administration proposal, under which the prime minister as well as the foreign, defense and trade ministers would conduct screenings before giving the go-ahead to exports of defense equipment and related technology.

They will work out details of the plan with the aim of reaching a broader agreement at their next meeting on Tuesday.