Japan extends Iraq air force support for 2 years

Tokyo, Mar 30: Japan's cabinet today approved extending a law that allows its air force to fly support missions to Iraq for another two years.

Foreign Minister Taro Aso told a cabinet meeting that the law, which is set to expire in July, should be extended because of the current situation in Iraq.

''To continue the supply airlift in a stable way, I believe a two-year extension is essential,'' he was quoted as saying in a government statement.

The legislation now goes to parliament where it is expected to pass, given the ruling coalition's majority.

Japan withdrew its 600 ground troops from Iraq last year after a non-combat mission lasting more than two years.

About 200 air force personnel have remained in Kuwait, from where they airlift supplies to the US military in Iraq.

The troop dispatch, which was welcomed by the United States, Tokyo's closest security ally, stretched the limits of Japan's pacifist constitution and was opposed by many voters, although approval rose after the soldiers came home without having fired a shot or suffered any casualties.

Reuters