Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda made his first policy speech in the Diet Monday. Although Mr. Fukuda's speech lacked freshness and bold proposals, it shows that he correctly grasps what worries people have about today's politics. But the question is whether he will come up with concrete policy measures and find sufficient funds to solve problems and whether he can get cooperation from the opposition camp, which now controls the Upper House following the July 29 election.
Mr. Fukuda declared that his administration will sincerely pursue dialogue with the opposition camp on important policy matters. This shows his intention of trying to get things done as peacefully as possible in the Diet by acting with sincerity toward the opposition camp. This is a welcome change from the Abe administration, which successively forced important bills through the Diet.
As expected, Mr. Fukuda cites as "pressing issues" the continuation of the Maritime Self-Defense Force's refueling activities in the Indian Ocean for the U.S.-led antiterrorism mission and the early resolution of the North Korean problem, including the past abduction of Japanese nationals. Displaying his dialogue-oriented approach, he said he will do his best to explain the MSDF's activities to the people and the Diet so that he can gain their understanding. It is hoped that he will disclose sufficient information to give a clear picture of the MSDF's activities.