JCP criticizes foreign minister for supporting pro-war resolution

Foreign Minister Kawaguchi Yoriko expressed support for a new resolution the United States, Britain and Spain submitted to the United Nations Security Council and disapproval of a memorandum submitted by France, Germany, and Russia, which proposed inspections on Iraq be continued.

In the February 25 House of Representatives Okinawa and Northern Problems Special Committee meeting, Kawaguchi, in reply to a question by Akamine Seiken from the Japanese Communist Party, said, "If members of the international community have different opinions and argue over the use of armed force against Iraq, it would only benefit Iraq."

Akamine blamed Kawaguchi for taking a negative attitude toward a peaceful solution of the problem and supporting the U.S. attempt to attack Iraq.

He demanded that the foreign minister support the efforts to continue inspections.

On the same day, Kawaguchi met Kanzaki Takenori, leader of the Komei Party as a coalition government member, and explained her position of supporting the draft resolution.

Kanzaki answered that he understands her explanation. (end)