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Japan may permit US attacks from its territory
TOKYO - The Asahi Shimbun newspaper reported that the United States and Japan are expected to upgrade their joint operation plan for a possible contingency on the Korean Peninsula. The Japanese newspaper said the countries agreed on military cooperation in case of an armed conflict on the Korean Peninsula, a missile attack on Japan or the launching of an operation to protect Taiwan from China.
| Rolled Taiwan into that, did they? |
The Asahi Shimbun quoted local government officials as saying that under the new agreement the US would be authorized to launch attacks on North Korea from bases and ports in Japan.
| There's a little instant message for both the Norks and their Chinese masters. |
In addition, the report said, Japanese and US officials will seek the cooperation of the police, local governments and the private sector in such functions as search and rescue operations for US military personnel, and providing and guarding bases and ports that would serve as operational hubs for the US military.
A senior Japanese defense official confirmed that the two countries are examining reactions to possible scenarios in the area, and admitted that the North Korean nuclear threat and the tensions between China and Taiwan are two key points that raise Japans concerns.
| Looks like Taiwan just isn't about China. |
According to the Kyodo news agency, during talks scheduled for next month Japan and the US are expected to discuss logistical aid to American troops in case of and armed conflict between Beijing and Taipei.
Posted by: Steve White 2007-01-07 |
