Washington, DC–(ENEWSPF)–April 27, 2012.
I am very pleased that, after many years, we have reached this important agreement and plan of action. I applaud the hard work and effort that went into crafting it. Let me also say how much I appreciate the leadership of Defense Minister Tanaka in spearheading the discussions in Tokyo.
Now that decisions have been made regarding the relocation of Marines to Guam, the Japanese government’s financial commitment, land returns south of Kadena, and the Futenma Replacement Facility and Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, we will work closely with our partners in the Japanese Self Defense Force to implement these decisions and to further improve this vital alliance of ours.
Japan is not just a close ally, but also a close friend. And I look forward to deepening that friendship and strengthening our partnership as, together, we address security challenges in the region.
Source: whitehouse.gov
