This year's defense white paper, released last week, specifically calls for both quantitative and qualitative improvement in SDF capabilities, including weapons replacement and modernization under the midterm defense-buildup program. More significantly, it points to a need to enact contingency legislation to facilitate military activities in the event of aggression against Japan. Clearly, the message is that Japan should build a more efficient defense force.

It is natural that the defense authorities should try to improve SDF capabilities. However, that should be only part of the nation's efforts to protect its territorial integrity and the safety of its people. Ensuring national security requires a comprehensive strategy, including efforts for conflict prevention. In the absence of such a strategy, there is something disquieting about the emphasis the report places on SDF buildup.

The latest defense white paper, published in the milestone year of 2001, is of special significance. As expected, it looks back to the past century, which witnessed so much confrontation and turmoil throughout the world, and explores the prospects for peace and stability in the 21st century. Specifically, it analyzes the military situation in the Asia Pacific region in the second half of the 20th century and attempts to forecast how it will develop in the years ahead.