Passage of the Basic Ocean Law is an epoch-making event for Japan, though there are concerns over the establishment of harmonious ocean geopolitics. It is sometimes said that mankind has conquered the ocean, but many unresolved issues remain. As an example, the development of ocean resources lags far behind that on land. We must think in terms of thousand year spans when considering ocean issues.

The Basic Act on Ocean Policy was enacted on April 20th of this year. As Chief Secretary of the LDP's Special Committee on Ocean Matters, I was involved in drafting of the Act, accommodating differences of opinion between the ruling and opposition parties, and coordinating strategy for the bill's presentation to the diet. As one of the proponents of the bill, I am thus delighted to see the Act come into effect on July 20th of this year and look forward to the creation of a comprehensive and integrated system of measures and implementation of a strategic ocean policy by the newly formed Headquarters for Ocean Policy.

The enactment of the Basic Ocean Law establishes a Headquarters for Ocean Policy in the Cabinet for the purpose of promoting ocean measures in an intensive and comprehensive fashion, and will allow the Prime Minister, as Director-General, to exercise political leadership towards their implementation. As a Minister for Ocean Policy will also be appointed, the government can act as one to more effectively address a wide range of ocean problems, including the development and use of marine resources, environmental conservation, safety issues, and the promotion of marine industries.

Although Japan is a maritime state, it has in the past been little inclined to recognize the strategic implications of this fact and make it a centerpiece of its national policy. After the Basic Ocean Law comes into effect, the prompt establishment of a system for implementation, the formulation of a Basic Plan, and preparation of the necessary domestic laws will be of great importance. By combining the strengths of the public and private sectors, we aim to create a new "Maritime Japan E