This past Saturday, Yoshihiko Noda, leader of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDPJ) and former prime minister, said he will press Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to uphold Japan’s Three Non-Nuclear Principles during upcoming Diet sessions. 🌐✊
Speaking to reporters in Kumamoto Prefecture, Noda emphasized Japan’s role in promoting nuclear abolition worldwide: "We must take the lead in spreading the idea of nuclear abolition to the world," he said. His words echo a deep-seated hope that Japan’s pacifist legacy stays strong. 🕊️
His remarks come after government sources revealed on Friday that Prime Minister Takaichi is considering reviewing the third principle, which bars nuclear weapons from entering Japanese territory. This potential shift has sparked debate over Japan’s security policy. 🤔
At a recent Lower House Budget Committee hearing, Takaichi avoided confirming whether her defense and security policies would adhere to the long-held ban. The hesitation has raised questions about her administration’s stance on nuclear issues. 📋
The Three Non-Nuclear Principles—no possessing, no producing, and no allowing introduction of nuclear weapons—were first declared by then-Prime Minister Eisaku Sato in 1967. Changing even one pillar would mark a historic shift and likely draw both domestic and international backlash. ⚖️
As Tokyo navigates evolving regional tensions, the debate over Japan’s non-nuclear identity is heating up. Young voices, policymakers, and the global community will be watching closely to see if these principles remain untouchable. 🔥
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
