China urges Japanese caution in crisis

Japan has had a pacifist constitution for more than 50 years

China has warned Japan that the role of its military remains a sensitive issue in the region.

We have kept reminding Japan to act prudently

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Sun Yuxi

The warning comes as MPs prepare to debate on Wednesday constitutional changes to allow Japan's Self-Defence Force to provide non-combat support to the US-led assault on Afghanistan.

Under the plan, Japan could send forces to provide medical supplies and services.

But a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman said Japan's military was constrained by "historical factors", which correspondents say is a reference to Japanese military aggression before and during World War II.

Koizumi wrote "sincere pardon" at a Chinese war memorial on Monday

He said: "This is a very sensitive issue and and we have kept reminding the Japanese side to act prudently."

Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, who has given strong support to the US, visited Beijing on Monday, seeking Chinese understanding for his plans.

Mr Koizumi is anxious to reassure his Asian neighbours that the changes will not mean a return to Japan's warlike past.

Pacifist constitution

Japan's post-war pacifist constitution bans the use of force in settling international disputes.

Mr Koizumi hopes to bring the bill into law by the end of the month.

Japan's ruling coalition has enough members to pass the bill without opposition support, but it wants to get the backing of the main opposition Democratic Party.

The Democrats still object to some key points. In particular they are reluctant to send ground forces to Pakistan, for fear it could become a combat zone.

Asian fears

The planned legislation would be in force for two years, with the possibility of extending it by two years.

Japanese forces would not go into any "combat areas" or countries that refused entrance, said an official. Also, Japan could transport weapons and ammunition but could not supply them.

However, Japanese forces would be armed and, in line with the current law, could shoot first if they needed to defend themselves.

Another proposed change is to allow Japan's Self-Defence Forces to protect US military facilities in Japan.