Japan's ruling coalition parties are trying to narrow the gap over a framework that would enable the transfer of defense equipment co-developed with other countries to third nations.

Japan is currently developing a next-generation fighter jet with Britain and Italy.

The government and main ruling Liberal Democratic Party are in favor of partially relaxing the country's strict regulations on the transfer of defense equipment. But the LDP's junior coalition partner Komeito remains cautious and is calling for strict conditions that would function as a brake on such exports.

At a meeting of the two parties on Friday, the government outlined certain conditions under which the fighter jets could be transferred to third countries.

It said any such framework would only apply to the next-generation fighter jets, and that they could only be transferred to countries with which Japan has signed a treaty on the export of defense equipment.

The government also proposed that the aircraft would not be allowed to be transferred to countries where fighting is taking place, and that discussions between the ruling parties would be held before any transfer.

The LDP is seeking an early agreement with Komeito to enable the transfer based on the proposals.

The LDP's policy chief, Tokai Kisaburo, said that progress has been made in the talks, and he is optimistic about the outcome.

The head of Komeito, Yamaguchi Natsuo, said that he expects lawmakers from the two parties will discuss the proposed conditions thoroughly from the perspective of whether they will be able to obtain the people's understanding and whether they will be able to tackle other issues raised by Komeito lawmakers.

Prime Minister Kishida Fumio plans to provide explanations about the export conditions in Diet sessions next week.

Komeito is expected to move step-by-step toward forming a consensus within the party.