Policy chiefs of Japan's ruling coalition parties are to meet on Friday to discuss the controversial issue of whether to allow exports of next-generation fighter jets.

The talks between Tokai Kisaburo of the main governing Liberal Democratic Party and Takagi Yosuke of Komeito were arranged after all Diet lawmakers of the junior coalition partner met on Thursday to discuss the issue.

Japan has been developing the future aircraft with Britain and Italy. The government and the LDP are in favor of easing the country's strict guidelines on transfers of defense equipment so jointly developed equipment can be exported to third countries. But Komeito is taking a cautious stance.

At the Komeito meeting, government officials explained the necessity of the fighter exports, but some of the party's lawmakers say a certain set of restrictions is needed if the exports are to be allowed.

As possible restrictions, some in the government and the LDP are proposing that countries to which the jet will be exported should be limited and strict screening be carried out.

The policy chiefs of the two parties are scheduled to discuss these issues on Friday, and Komeito plans to decide whether to agree to the exports afterward.

In the Diet, Prime Minister Kishida Fumio has sought people's understanding about the exports, stressing that such shipments serve the national interest.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Hayashi Yoshimasa told reporters on Wednesday that Britain and Italy believe exports are crucial for lowering procurement costs, and are requesting Japan to do the same.

Hayashi warned that without a framework for such exports, Japan will be seen internationally as an unworthy partner for joint development and production.

He said that would make Japan's participation in such international programs difficult in the future, causing an obstacle in Japan's national defense.

The head of the largest opposition Constitutional Democratic Party, Izumi Kenta, said he is worried that Japan's strict guidelines may be gradually eased without a thorough discussion. Izumi told a radio program on Wednesday that Japan must avoid having its weapons used to kill people in foreign countries.