Reply #5: All good points [View All]

[psychopomp]

Especially about the need to demonstrate a readiness to contribute troops in peacekeeping operations. Still, I don't know how Japan expects to have a shot at the permanent seat what with China being set against such a development.

I also believe that Japan's interests will soon diverge from those of the United States and thus will need to sever its reliance on US patronage. The moves to effect this change have been afoot for years but it is still a bit shocking to see things picking up steam.

But, the government is moving in baby steps; this panel does not advise revoking Article 9:

The 700-page report said the majority of panel members supported keeping the war-renouncing Article 9, but stressed the need to spell out the right to self-defense and the Self-Defense Forces, Kyodo News agency reported. They also agreed to specify the definition of defense emergencies and a framework for regional security in Asia.

I think the headline is bad as it implies that the panel endorses revoking Article 9.