2004 MAY 19 - MAY 25 NEWS

JCP WELCOMES OUTCOME OF JAPAN-NORTH KOREA SUMMIT
To resolve the pending issues to eventually normalize Japan-North Korea relations will be an important step toward ensuring peace and security for Japan in the future and achieving peace and stability in Northeast Asia.

JAPAN'S INDUSTRIAL SECTOR MUST FULFILL ITS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
Although the industrial and public sectors, including transport, are responsible for 80% of the total amount of CO2 emissions, Japan's business sector is reluctant to take positive actions.

A JCP MEMBER ELECTED AS TOWN MAYOR
Ironically, backed by many LDP members, Okumura Tadatoshi beat the incumbent mayor who has promoted LDP agenda, including a merger with other towns to become a part of a neighboring city.

JAPAN-N. KOREA
* Fuwa on Koizumi's revisit to North Korea
* JCP welcomes outcome of Japan-North Korea summit talks

---

IRAQ
* Kyoto religious leaders call for withdrawal of troops from Iraq
* Former Iraq hostages give eyewitness reports and question SDF in Iraq

---

CONTINGENCY LEGISLATION
Don't overlook the world current of pacifism -- Akahata editorial, May 19 (excerpts)
* Contingency bills rammed through Lower House
* 10,000 people rally in protest against contingency legislation

---

U.S. FORCES
* An Okinawa town rises up in opposition to U.S. training site

---

POLITICS
* JCP Koike debunks tricks in the pension bill
* New cabinet spokesman suspected of covert donations
* Okada chosen as new DPJ head