Japan's security meeting approves extension of anti-terror law

A governmental security meeting on Monday approved a bill to extend the anti-terrorism law for another year, paving the way for its passage in the parliament.

The cabinet is expected to give green light to the bill on Tuesday, then submit it to an ongoing extraordinary parliamentary session for approval. Japan adopted the legislation soon after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United Satates. Under the law, Tokyo has sent fleets, including refueling vessels to the Indian Ocean to support the US-led military operations in Afghanistan.

After a previous extension in October 2003, the law will expire on Nov. 1.

The Japanese government intends this time to shorten the extension period to one year, saying the threat of terrorism is dwindling and it needs to make judgement based on the development of situation.

Source: Xinhua