The Japanese government on Tuesday approved a bill to extend the anti-terrorism law for another year, paving the way for its passage in the parliament.

The cabinet will submit it to an ongoing extraordinary parliamentary session for approval.

Japan adopted the legislation in 2001 soon after the "9.11" terrorist attacks on the United States. Under the law, Tokyo has sent fleets, including refueling vessels to the Indian Ocean to support the US-led military operations in Afghanistan.

After a previous extension in October 2003, the law will expire on November 1.

The Japanese government intends this time to shorten the extension period to one year, saying the threat of terrorism is dwindling and it needs to make judgment based on the development of situation
 
(Xinhua News Agency October 4, 2005)