Abe aiming to realize Constitution revision

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said Tuesday he is aiming to realize the revision of Japan's pacifist Constitution during his term as premier and to have legislation for a national referendum on the issue passed during next year's parliamentary session. "I understand this will be a historical and huge task," Abe told a news conference after the first extraordinary parliament session under his administration adjourned earlier in the day.

"Over the past 60 years, the security situation surrounding Japan has changed significantly," said the premier, seen by many as a conservative hawk. "Bearing the responsibility to protect the lives and property of our people, I have to consider what policies will be best for our national security."