Japan press welcomes Iraq move

Japan is to withdraw its 600 non-combat troops from Iraq

Japan's decision to withdraw its troops from Iraq is given a cautious welcome in the national press.

A major issue arousing the passion of commentators is how Japan's Ground Self-Defence Forces (GSDF) should be deployed to conflict zones in the future.

SANKEI SHIMBUN

If Japan plans to be a responsible member of the international community, it cannot dump the duty of maintaining public security on other nations. Japan must specifically indicate to the Iraqis that there will be no change in its reconstruction assistance after the withdrawal.

YOMIURI SHIMBUN

Japan cannot respond quickly [to international conflicts] if it has to undergo legislative proceedings every time a new situation arises. It must speed up its preparation to enact a "permanent law" on the SDF's international peace cooperation activity.

ASAHI SHIMBUN

We should not forget that the Arab world is disappointed with Japan for supporting the Iraq war and taking part in the occupation. The SDF, which is becoming more integrated in the United States' own strategy, should not be deployed to another Iraq without careful consideration. We cannot but be relieved that the GSDF deployment is over and say 'all's well that ends well'.

Commentary in MAINICHI SHIMBUN

Koizumi's accountability for the major U-turn he has made in post-war [World War II] defence policy has not really been questioned because, luckily for him, no SDF personnel were killed in Iraq.

Headline in NIHON KEIZAI SHIMBUN

Iraq withdrawal decision welcomed.

TOKYO SHIMBUN

Every possible measure should be taken until all the troops return home. It is natural for Japan to withdraw the GSDF in the wake of the UK and Australian forces transferring security powers to the Iraqi government.

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