The Japanese political arena is abuzz over the Three Non-Nuclear Principles: Will the policy of not introducing nuclear weapons be re-examined?

Gao Shi Zaomiao promised to adhere to the Three Principles of No Nuclear Weapons but made a compromise on "not introducing nuclear weapons"!

During the party leader discussion on the 26th, Gao Shi Zaomiao was asked by the president of the Komeito Party, Saito Tetsuo, whether they would reconsider the Three Principles of No Nuclear Weapons. Gao Shi stated: "As a policy guideline, we will adhere to the Three Principles of No Nuclear Weapons. However, regarding 'not introducing nuclear weapons,' we will inherit the explanation given by Foreign Minister Okada in 2010. In other words, if an emergency situation arises where Japan's security cannot be protected without nuclear weapons, the government at that time will make a specific decision and explain it to the public. Although we will start reviewing the three strategic documents, there is no clear indication to reconsider the Three Principles of No Nuclear Weapons."

Saito Tetsuo was not satisfied with Gao Shi Zaomiao's response, arguing that using the excuse of Japan facing danger makes the criteria for judging such a situation unclear: "Although I do not deny the logic of deterrence itself, how about making a judgment based solely on this? The Prime Minister should abide by the Three Principles of No Nuclear Weapons, as well as the lives of the citizens. The Prime Minister's response is too inclined towards expansionism. I declare that this is the Three Principles of No Nuclear Weapons that protect the lives of the citizens. As the only country that has suffered from nuclear warfare, Japan, in a way, if there is any动摇 (instability), reconsidering the Three Principles of No Nuclear Weapons would be a dream."

Furthermore, Saito Tetsuo believes that the response in an emergency does not mean reconsidering the Three Principles of No Nuclear Weapons. "In normal times, we should not reconsider the Three Principles of No Nuclear Weapons in advance." If reconsideration is needed, it should be decided by the Diet rather than a cabinet meeting.

In response, Gao Shi said: "Japan is the only country that has experienced nuclear warfare, and I also highly value the Non-Proliferation Treaty. Under this system, Japan must continue to make sincere efforts to prevent further nuclear proliferation. In the future, including practical measures, as the only country that has experienced nuclear warfare, Japan has made great contributions to international peace and stability, which many countries are aware of. Therefore, while considering all these factors, the subsequent formulation of the three strategic documents will be done carefully."

Original text: www.toutiao.com/article/1849837735947274/

Statement: The article represents the personal views of the author.