Aso refuses to end Japan’s subservience to U.S.

Japan Press Weekly

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

Aso refuses to end Japan’s subservience to U.S.

Prime Minister Aso Taro’s responses to questions by Japanese Communist Party Chair Shii Kazuo on October 2 showed that Aso’s position is one of keeping Japan subservient to the United States.

In his questioning, Shii pointed out that the U.S.-led war has created a vicious circle of war and terrorism.

Aso, in disregard of Shii’s argument that war cannot eradicate terrorism, stated that the withdrawal of the Self-Defense Forces from the Indian Ocean is “not an option,” indicating that he is intent on extending the SDF’s refueling mission for U.S. warships in the Indian Ocean.

With the “war on terrorism” dragging on without end, efforts are being made to achieve a peaceful and diplomatic solution to overcome the situation in Afghanistan.

On September 30, Afghan President Hamid Karzai made a call for peace to the Taliban forces.

Aso’s remarks show his treacherous intent to attempt to meet the U.S. demand for the continued deployment of the SDF in the Indian Ocean.

Referring to the deployment of the U.S. nuclear-powered aircraft carrier George Washington to the U.S. Yokosuka Naval Base, Shii asked if the prime minister believes it is a matter of course to “coexist” with U.S. bases permanently.

Ignoring radioactive leaks from the U.S. nuclear-powered submarine Houston for more than two years and the recent fire on the Gorge Washington, Aso stressed the “safety” of the nuclear-powered warship, saying, “There has not been even one case that U.S. warships during their visit to Japanese ports released radioactivity that could adversely influence human health or the environment.” He stated that the government will “steadily promote” the realignment of the U.S. forces which will strengthen and perpetuate U.S. bases in Japan. - Akahata, October 3, 2008