Tokyo, Dec 19 (NationPress) The Japanese government reaffirmed its dedication to non-nuclear policies on Friday, dismissing comments from a security official suggesting that the nation should acquire nuclear weapons.

During a press briefing, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara emphasized that the administration's strategy is to uphold the three non-nuclear principles, which prohibit the possession, production, and introduction of nuclear arms, according to Kyodo News Agency.

Lawmakers from both the ruling and opposition factions have called for the replacement of the official who implied a shift away from these non-nuclear principles. This statement coincides with reports that Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is contemplating a review of Japan's non-nuclear stance.

In response to queries about whether the official should maintain their position, Kihara opted not to comment on “every media report.”

He reiterated that Japan's approach is to implement realistic and practical measures to promote a nuclear-free world, aiming to sustain and enhance the global nuclear disarmament framework under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, being the only nation that has experienced atomic bombing in wartime.

Kihara stated, “Since the conclusion of the war, our nation has steadfastly contributed to the peace and prosperity of the international community. This stance remains unchanged.”

These comments followed the official's earlier statement, where he claimed, “I believe we should possess nuclear weapons,” while also suggesting that such an idea was impractical and denied any discussions regarding revising the non-nuclear principles with PM Takaichi.

In November, Prime Minister Takaichi had avoided confirming Japan's commitment to not producing, possessing, or hosting nuclear weapons, amid concerns regarding the “nuclear umbrella.” Japan's Three Non-Nuclear Principles were established in 1967.

Addressing opposition lawmakers in the Japanese Parliament, Takaichi remarked that “it is not yet at the stage” where she could “definitively state” that the wording of the principles will remain unchanged, as reported by The Japan Times. Her comments emerged as her administration plans to revise Japan's national security documents by the end of 2026. Nevertheless, she reassured that her government would uphold the pledge for now.

She concluded, “At this moment, the government continues to abide by the Three Non-Nuclear Principles as a policy guideline.”