[The Japanese Government Does Not Rule Out the Possibility of Independently Releasing Oil Reserves] According to a report by Jinse Finance, citing Kyodo News, Japan's Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry, Akazawa Ryoichi, stated during a parliamentary committee meeting on Wednesday that the Japanese government does not rule out the possibility of 'independently' releasing national oil reserves, rather than as part of a coordinated action. He added, 'We will take all possible measures to ensure the stability of energy supply.' As of the end of December, Japan's total oil reserves can meet domestic consumption needs for 254 days, of which 146 days' worth is owned by the government, 101 days' worth is held by the private sector, and the remaining portion is jointly stored with oil-producing countries. (Jin10)