In today's world, it is essential to recognize that national interest is rooted in policy. All of AFJ's activities are based on this premise. A major challenge in this age of globalization is how to reconcile the pursuit of national interest with international cooperation. AFJ will make a distinction between the mere formalities of international meetings and exchanges on the one hand, and the establishment of practical policy coordination on the other. Leveraging the international network that we have cultivated, we will work to foster policy coordination between Japan and other countries in pursuit of a Japanese national interest that is concordant with our times.

As the world changes with extreme rapidity, it has become impossible for traditional bureaucrat-led methods of policy formation to meet the needs of the times. As political and governmental reform progresses, the legislative branch, not just the executive branch, will be required to demonstrate sophisticated policy-making capability. As a think tank that puts ideas into practice, AFJ will propose concepts that could not have been envisioned by old organizations and arrangements. We will work with our contacts within Japanese and overseas governments and legislatures, as well as our international network, to turn ideas into reality.