JAPAN NEWS AND DISCUSSION

zman12's past comments

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  zman12Jan. 27, 2010 - 01:57AM JST

  Japan never underwent colonization-so the closest it has experienced anything is the US occupation [for better or for worse]. And, the current generation probably feels they need to assert themselves regarding their views on being a truly independent country [or not]. Hence, the view point of YuriOtani is valid

  No doubt, Japan [and Germany] benefited tremendously from the US assiatance [managing to achieve the status of not only the biggest economy of Asia but also the second biggest economy of the world]. But in the grand scheme of things, many people in the current generation feel if economic benefits will accrue just as much from Asia as they did from America/Europe], then justifications for wars from within Asia is a bit confusing.

  Unless, of course, the US can sweeten the deal with something that trounces the economic benefits of trading with China/Korea, I think there will be continued strong resistance to the bases. In the end, countries pursue the most advantageous and beneficial objectives, independent of emotional attachments or other such baggage. The US had provided a security blanket that enabled the nourishment of the Japanese economy, in return Japan acquiesced many decision making roles to Washington; the recent economic crises has upset these equations

  I think the neither the US nor Japan will be taking anything for granted

  Posted in: Hatoyama says he'll start from scratch on Futenma relocation plan

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  zman12Jan. 27, 2010 - 01:36AM JST

  alphawolf; sorry-my mistake I really didnt read carefully. I stand corrected

  Posted in: Hatoyama says Nago mayoral result shows will of the people

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  zman12Jan. 27, 2010 - 12:20AM JST

  Vulcan says that removing the bases would be bad for the Okinawan economy. So, presently, the Japanese government is pumping around more than 200 billion yen a year towards the upkeep of the bases [the Japanese government is undergoing a review towards trimming these expenses]. It is not under a contractual agreement to give this money but as a matter of goodwill.

  It is also important to consider the financial responsibilities of the Japanese towards these bases, if the Americans are insistent on keeping the bases within Okinawa. Moreover, I also think the Japanese need to be careful of not being dragged into wars the US will intend to fight in the future. Japan as slowly built up a reputation of being a peaceful country recently, and should be careful that the reputation is not damaged again. I also think it was a good thing to stop refueling these military ships sent out by the US [other countries] with Japanese tax payers money.

  Instead of wasting money on such activities, should encourage more funds being available for helping people wanting to have children and start a family.

  [good that YuriOtani spoke up in defense of his views]

  Posted in: Hatoyama says Nago mayoral result shows will of the people

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  zman12Jan. 27, 2010 - 12:01AM JST

  I think its an interesting time to debate the use of these bases in japan. As a gaikokujin myself [and Asian, but not from this region], I see some logic to the argument proposed in favor of the will of the Okinawans

  Why have the bases. Is it to protect Japan from a Chinese attack? [But China is the bigger trading partner with Japan nowadays-previously used to be the USA]. And China can put in a stern word to North Korea if things are going out of control.

  In anycase, with an East Asian Community forum coming up, silly wars being fought in the region would be unlikely [unlike the the case for countries like India and Pakistan, who possess resources and lack wisdom]. If I recall correctly, the last time their was a possibility of war the USA and UK did their best to escalate the situation, while also stating thy were trying to help. The British Prime Minister, Toy Blair flew to India and Pakistan to sell weapons to both countries on the same visit!! [the utter insult of it all]

  I think the Japanese should better beware of situations where arms will be sold to Japan and South Korea, to start a war.

  Posted in: Hatoyama says Nago mayoral result shows will of the people

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