The United States warmly welcomes the passage of legislation by the Japanese Diet on October 29 that paves the way for Japan's military contributions to the counterterrorism campaign. The new laws authorize Japan's Self Defense Forces to provide rear-area logistical support for coalition members and takes measures to strengthen security around U.S. bases in Japan. This legislation, and Japan's support for the coalition efforts, is important not only for the campaign against terrorism, but also further strengthens the U.S.-Japan alliance. We also appreciate Japan's generous humanitarian economic assistance and refugee relief to affected countries in the region.

We applaud Prime Minister Koizumi's strong support and political leadership in this counterterrorism campaign, and for his determination to expand Japan's contributions to international challenges.

We also want to give a special note of thanks to Japan's outgoing Ambassador to the United States, Shunji Yanai, for his contributions in realizing Japan's participation in the counterterrorism campaign, and for his dedication to strengthening the U.S.-Japan alliance.