Core Viewpoint - Japan is conducting experimental drilling near Minami-Torishima Island, believed to contain rare earth elements, as part of a strategic innovation initiative by the Cabinet Office [2][4]. Group 1 - The experimental drilling project is part of the "Strategic Innovation Creation Program (SIP)" promoted by the Cabinet Office [4]. - The project utilizes the research vessel "Chikyu," operated by the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), to verify the feasibility of recovering mud from a depth of approximately 6000 meters [4]. - On February 1, the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Yohei Matsumoto, announced via social media that successful retrieval of mud from a depth of 6000 meters has been achieved [2].