Japan’s PM to start 6-nation tour of Europe

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is set to begin a 6-nation tour of Europe. He’ll hold discussions with several European leaders on arange of issues, including the Ukraine crisis.Abe is scheduled to arrive in Germany on Tuesday. He’ll also to visit Britain,Portugal, Spain, France and Belgium over 10 days, and will head back to Japan onMay 8th, according to Japan’s (NHK WORLD) website.Like Japan, Germany, Britain and France are members of the Group of 7 nations. Abewill sit down with the leaders of each country to discuss Ukraine and the G-7′sresponse to Russia.Abe intends to reaffirm further cooperation with regard to Ukraine before a meeting in June of G-7 leaders.The prime minister is also expected to deliver a speech at NATO headquarters inBrussels. He will explain his policy of Japan’s “Proactive Contribution to Peace.”The policy outlines possible changes to the interpretation of Japan’s Constitution.The changes would allow the country to exercise the right to collective self-defense.Abe’s speech is expected to emphasize his government’s efforts to revive theJapanese economy. He’s expected to mention measures to support working women,one of the main pillars of his growth strategy.