CCTV9英语新闻：日本国家安全局（在线收听）

Kyodo News reports that the Japanese government has decided to officially launch the National Security Bureau, which will focus on coordinating with Japan’s allies, gathering information and centralizing strategic decision making.

Local reports say the new executive body will strengthen the prime minister’s control over foreign and defense policies. It will also end the traditional information management mode, which was performed separately by different government organs. Shotaro Yachi, Shinzo Abe’s foreign policy adviser, will chair the bureau. Sources say a special telephone line has been set up at the prime minister’s official residence in case of emergencies.

Critics argue that the new bureau simplifies the decision-making process regarding national security and diplomacy, and poses potential risks due to the enhanced authority of the Prime Minister.