Japan to Set Up Expert Panel on CBRNE Terrorism

Tokyo, Aug. 24 (Jiji Press)–The Japanese government on Monday compiled an action plan to address terrorism involving chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive, or CBRNE, materials. Under the plan, the government will establish an expert panel to improve initial responses to CBRNE attacks, strengthen intelligence functions, improve medical care systems and secure medical supplies. At a related meeting at the prime minister’s office in Tokyo, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said, “We can’t rule out the possibility that our country will be a target of terrorism in the future.” He ordered the prompt implementation of the action plan to “protect the people from disasters.” The panel will include doctors, academic experts, former Self-Defense Forces and police officers who were previously in charge of antiterrorism measures. It will advise the government’s antiterrorism headquarters, which will be established in the event of a terrorist attack and headed by the prime minister. A panel of related ministries and agencies will also be set up to collect and analyze information, including on drones and artificial intelligence that could be used for terrorism. Additionally, the government will develop a system to stockpile medical supplies to treat victims and distribute them promptly in the event of a terror attack. The government will also expand training for medical institutions that are expected to accept injured and sick people. The action plan also calls for strengthening cooperation with other countries to prevent the proliferation of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction, particularly with North Korea in mind. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]