Overview

• Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba attended the Japan Coast Guard School graduation in Maizuru on September 27, marking only the second appearance by a sitting prime minister since 2016.
• In his address, he cited repeated Chinese coast guard entries near the Senkaku Islands and urged steadfast protection of citizens, territory and territorial waters.
• He said the Coast Guard’s role is growing more important given rising maritime crime and the emergence of disputes over maritime rights.
• He pledged to improve the operating environment and equipment so officers can fully perform their duties, emphasizing clear-eyed analysis of international circumstances.
• According to the Prime Minister’s Office, his program included reviewing the student march, delivering a congratulatory message, conducting a commemorative tree planting and inspecting the training ship Miura.