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Japan Press Service Co., Ltd. is the only news agency providing information of progressive, democratic movements in Japan

Kanoya City firmly opposes U.S. forces relocation

Residents of Kanoya City and heads of neighboring municipalities in Kagoshima Prefecture on March 22 adopted a resolution expressing their "firm opposition" to the planned relocation of U.S. Marines air refueling aircraft to the Maritime Self-Defense Force Kanoya Base.

Expressing "concerns about an increase in noise pollution and in the risk of accidents," and pointing out that "the Japan-U.S. Status of Forces Agreement has not been revised yet," the resolution stated that they firmly oppose the relocation plan at this point.

Before the adoption, representatives of Kanoya residents stated that they must oppose the relocation under the current situation, criticizing the government for trying to carry out the plan in disregard of local opinion.

Kanoya City Mayor Yamashita Sakae after the meeting said, "It is a step forward that the resolution expressed our 'firm opposition'. I will respect the decision made in the meeting and convey this to the City Assembly."
- Akahata, March 23, 2006