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

Mayor reiterates opposition to relocation of U.S. F-15 fighter jets

Mayor Tsuchiya Yoshifumi of Shintomi Town in Miyazaki Prefecture in southwestern Japan has reiterated his opposition to the plan to relocate the training of U.S. F-15 fighter units from the U.S. Kadena Air Base in Okinawa to the Air Self-Defense Force Nyutabaru Base in the town. He complained about the Japanese government's failure to explain to the town about the plan of the realignment of U.S. forces in Japan.

The mayor stated this on April 3 in talks with Akamine Seiken, Japanese Communist Party House of Representatives member, at the Shintomi Town office.

Mayor Tsuchiya stressed that the townspeople, who have a big "allergy" to U.S. soldiers, are very concerned about the coming of U.S. soldiers for public security reasons. He said he is opposed to the plan to construct barracks for U.S. air force troops, because it will perpetuate the stationing of U.S. forces there.

Akamine said, "Even if the U.S. and Japanese governments finally agree on the U.S. military realignment plan in Japan, it will not be easy to strengthen the functions of U.S. bases because of growing public opposition. This is clear from Okinawa's experience. Please continue to stand for the townspeople's opposition to the plan."
- Akahata, April 4, 2006