Shinzo Abe on Iraq

[GodEmperorLeto]

Article here.

Although this article has more to do with Iraq than with the Japanese prime minister, pay attention to the part at the bottom, which I will copy here.

Abe was given the coveted invitation to the Camp David presidential retreat in part as a gesture of appreciation for Tokyo's commitment to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Japan is the largest financial contributor, after the United States, for the rebuilding effort in Iraq, and is the third largest contributor in Afghanistan. Japanese defense forces have conducted refueling operations for the U.S. and coalition forces.

Abe expressed thanks "for the noble sacrifice the United States is making" in Iraq. On Thursday, the Japanese leader went to Arlington National Cemetery to pay respects to U.S. war dead, and visited injured troops at Bethesda Naval Hospital.

"The president expressed his strong determination to carry through for the task of Iraq's reconstruction," Abe said. "And I told the president that Japan understands and supports U.S. efforts for the stabilization and reconstruction of Iraq and Japan will carry on its own efforts to the same end."

Thoughts? Reactions? Other references/articles?

 

[Grandpa Frank]

Elvis, Bush, and Abe, close friends forever.

Guess Japan needs oil also? Friends support each other?
Who knows what goes on in the minds of polititions?

Uncle Frank

 

[Mikawa Ossan]

Yes, Japan needs resources for its economy, and they need the support of the U.S. under the current power structure. Reconstruction in Iraq was also a convenient excuse to push the envelope regarding what the SDF can legally do.

 

[GodEmperorLeto]

It amazed me that the Prime Minister visited Arlington. That's really meaningful, especially since it is where many Americans are entombed who fought and killed (and were killed by) Japanese soldiers. Considering how the Japanese view tombs and shrines as sacred, it really hit me hard that he spent time there.

Despite all of the political sabre-rattling and power-jockeying, I feel like this has the potential to really strengthen U.S.-Japan ties, as well as continue healing the wounds of the World War.

It's difficult to describe how I feel about Shinzo Abe visiting Arlington. I've been there only once, myself, but it moved me, especially the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It is a giant memorial to every American who died serving his country, whether they are buried there or not. That the Prime Minister was there honestly has made a very powerful impression on me, regardless of any political motivations or machinations that may or may not have prompted the visit.