Former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda, who led the country from 2007 to 2008, has called for Japan to accelerate its use of nuclear power to reduce its dependence on oil imports from the Middle East. Drawing on his experience during the 1973 oil shock while working in the Japanese oil industry, Fukuda highlighted the economic and energy security risks posed by Japan's heavy reliance on Middle Eastern oil, citing repeated threats to Japan’s industrial base and overall economy due to price fluctuations and supply disruptions [1].
Fukuda stated, "Japan's energy security cannot be ensured as long as we rely so heavily on oil from the Middle East. Nuclear power is a key solution for our country to secure a stable and affordable energy supply" [1]. He acknowledged public concerns following the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster but emphasized that thorough safety measures and transparent regulatory processes could help restore public trust and enable a responsible nuclear revival [1].
He pointed to recent government initiatives, such as streamlining nuclear plant approvals and introducing earlier counterterrorism reviews, as positive steps toward addressing regulatory bottlenecks and enhancing safety [1]. Fukuda also commented on Japan's efforts to diversify its energy mix through investments in liquefied natural gas (LNG) and renewable energy, but maintained that nuclear power remains indispensable for reducing carbon emissions and achieving energy independence [1].
Fukuda concluded that while renewables and LNG are important, they are insufficient to replace oil imports at the scale required for true energy security, advocating for a balanced approach with nuclear power as the foundation [1].
CONCLUSION
Former Prime Minister Fukuda's remarks underscore the urgency for Japan to strengthen its energy security by accelerating nuclear power development, despite public concerns. He views nuclear energy as essential for reducing oil dependence, stabilizing the economy, and achieving carbon reduction goals, while supporting a balanced energy mix.