Japan Press Weekly

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2009 November 11 - 17 [OKINAWA]

Ginowan mayor calls on foreign minister to close Futenma base

At an observation deck overlooking the Futenma base, Iha explained to Okada that the base is located in the densely populated area of Ginowan in violation of U.S. safety standards.

Okada told Iha that considering the Japan-U.S. security structure, the government must find a place to relocate the base instead of closing it.

After the talks with Okada, asked by reporters how he sees the government’s position to try to reach a conclusion on this issue this year, Iha said, “The government should take more time to discuss this issue. The U.S. government will publish a new Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR) next year. Okinawa’s issues need to be dealt with based on the U.S. forces’ new strategy.”

“Majority of Okinawans are opposed to the relocation of the Futenma base within the prefecture. The government should not misread their demands,” he added.
- Akahata, November 17, 2009