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Week Ending September 7, 2007

H.RES.508 Recognizing the strong security alliance between the Government of Japan and the United States and expressing appreciation to Japan for its role in enhancing stability in the Asia-Pacific region and its efforts in the global war against terrorism.

<< Click on flag for map and country data, Japan

Japan, long time US ally in the Asia-pacific and largest holder by far of the US debt is recognized in the resolution for preserving and promoting political and economic freedoms, support for human rights and democracy and aiding in the war on terror.

Japan hosts US naval, Marine and Army bases and 50,000 US troops.

The resolution recognizes Japan as one of the most reliable security partners and commends its role in regional stability.

More resolution below….

Sponsor:  Rep. Jim Saxton (NJ-3^rd)

Vote: Passed House 405 to 0 September 5, 2007 RC 852

Cost to the taxpayers: No discernible cost

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Whereas the United States-Japan alliance is the cornerstone of United States security interests in Asia and the Pacific and is fundamental to regional stability and prosperity;

Whereas the United States-Japan alliance continues to be based on shared vital interests and values in the Asia-Pacific region, despite the changes in the post-cold war strategic landscape, including the preservation and promotion of political and economic freedoms, support for human rights and democratic institutions, and securing of prosperity for the people of both countries and the international community;

Whereas on April 27, 2007, during Prime Minister Abe's visit to Washington, President Bush and the Prime Minister reconfirmed their commitment to these common strategic objectives;

Whereas Japan provides military bases and generous financial and material support to United States forward-deployed forces, which are essential for maintaining stability in the region;

Whereas under the United States-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security, Japan hosts a carrier battle group, the III Marine Expeditionary Force, the 5th Air Force, and elements of the Army's I Corps;

Whereas the United States currently maintains approximately 50,000 troops in Japan, about half of whom are stationed in Okinawa;

Whereas over the past decade the alliance has been strengthened through revised Defense Guidelines (which expand Japan's noncombat role in a regional contingency) and the continued renewal of Japan's Host Nation Support of United States forces stationed in Japan;

Whereas in 2005, the two allies agreed on a redefinition of roles, missions, and capabilities of alliance forces, which further deepens interoperability and coordination between the Japanese Self Defense Forces (SDF) and United States Armed Forces;

Whereas the agreement also provided for reducing the number of troops stationed in Okinawa and broadening our cooperation in the area of ballistic missile defense (BMD);

Whereas implementation of these agreements will strengthen our capabilities and make our alliance more sustainable;

Whereas after the tragic events of September 11, 2001, Japan has participated significantly with the global war on terrorism by providing troops, aircraft, and logistical support for Operation Iraqi Freedom, a commitment which the Japanese Government recently renewed;

Whereas Japan has also provided major logistical support for United States and coalition forces in the Indian Ocean in support of Operation Enduring Freedom since 2002;

Whereas alliance BMD capabilities, which contribute to the alliance's overall deterrence posture, are strengthened to the extent that United States and Japanese systems can operate together effectively;

Whereas in May 2007, the United States and Japan confirmed that, as both countries develop and deploy capabilities, every effort must be made to ensure tactical, operational, and strategic coordination;

Whereas in that light, the United States and Japan will take appropriate measures, in close coordination, in response to ballistic missile threats against alliance interests; and

Whereas because of the importance of improving the situational awareness of United States forces and the SDF, the two sides are committed to the routine sharing of BMD and related operational information directly with each other on a real-time, continuous basis: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the House of Representatives--

(1) recognizes that Japan is one of the most reliable security partners of the United States;

(2) commends the Government of Japan for its role in enhancing stability in the Asia-Pacific Region; and

(3) expresses appreciation for its efforts in the global war against terrorism.

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