 JCP votes against resolution stressing Japan-U.S. ties as an absolute In the Diet on December 3, the Japanese Communist Party voted against a resolution to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Japan-U.S. relations on the grounds that it defines the Japan-U.S. alliance as absolute, steering Japan into the future. The Treaty of Peace and Amity between the United States and the Empire of Japan effected Japan's opening to the world in 1853. Speaking on behalf of the JCP in the House of Representatives Plenary Session, Kokuta Keiji argued that although the resolution emphasizes that both countries closely cooperate with each other in bringing about world peace and prosperity, the fact is that the United States continues its unjustifiable war in Iraq (including the massacre in Fallujah) and that Japan is cooperating in the war in violation of international law. After the Diet session, JCP Executive Committee Chair Shii Kazuo said, "Although celebration of the anniversary has nothing objectionable, the resolution is not one of celebrating it in general terms. It unconditionally accepts the Japan-U.S. military alliance as absolute and declares at home and internationally that Japan will stay the course in its relations with the United States. (end) |