Japan PM sets out policy agenda

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Japan's new prime minister has called for dialogue with the opposition to resolve a row over a controversial naval deployment.

In his first speech to parliament, Yasuo Fukuda said extending the mission - which supports US-led troops in Afghanistan - remained an urgent task.

The 71-year-old also pledged to build closer ties with Asian neighbours and restore public trust in government.

Mr Fukuda became prime minister after Shinzo Abe stepped down last month.

He has acknowledged that he faces an uphill task - both to rebuild trust in his party after Mr Abe's scandal-hit administration and to work with an opposition-controlled upper house.

'Responsible role'

Mr Fukuda said that extending the naval mission was a priority.

Japanese vessels in the Indian Ocean have been providing refuelling and other logistical support for US-led operations in Afghanistan.

The deployment was permitted under special legislation and the current mandate for the mission is to expire on 1 November.

The opposition does not support its extension and could block passage of the legislation in the upper house.

Mr Fukuda said that helping build security in the region served Japan's national interests.

"I will do my utmost to gain the understanding by the public and parliament members over extending the mission," he said.

Mr Fukuda also promised to pursue a "responsible international role".

He said that resolving the North Korean nuclear issue was "indispensable for peace and security in Asia", and promised to build friendly ties with China.

Other topics were notable by their absence.

Mr Fukuda did not mention reforming Japan's pacifist constitution or the subject of teaching patriotism in schools - polices of his predecessor which had proved unpopular.

But he vowed to work hard to regain public faith in government.

"I've instructed all ministers to observe the law and ethics, and I will be extra-strict about my own actions," he said.