Japan sends warships to Indian Ocean

By Amit Baruah

SINGAPORE, NOV. 9. In what is being described as the first such instance since World War II, Japan today sent out three warships to the Indian Ocean as part of providing ``logistical support'' to the American forces operating in Afghanistan.

Two maritime Self-Defence Force (SDF) destroyers - including the 5,200-tonne Kurama, equipped to carry helicopters - and the 8,100-tonne flotilla support ship, Hamana, comprise the vessels sent out by Japan.

The Chief Cabinet Secretary, Mr. Yasuo Fukuda, told reporters in Tokyo that the ships would ``collect necessary information with the aim of conducting logistic support'' under the newly-enacted anti-terrorism law.

Under the new legislation, the Government has the powers to embark on a non-combat military mission but must seek approval of the Diet (Parliament) within 20 days. The Japanese decision to play a proactive role in the American war against terrorism in Afghanistan has, however, raised some concerns in the region, especially on account of its wartime past. It has been made clear that the Japanese intention is not to play any combat role. The Prime Minister, Mr. Junichiro Koizumi, explained his decision to sent the SDF out in a supportive role to ASEAN leaders earlier this week.

During the Gulf War of 1990, Japan had attracted considerable criticism for not doing ``more'' than providing cash for the U.S.-led effort against Iraq.

This time round, Japan has responded to those criticisms by enacting a special law and dispatching three ships to play a logistical role and also gather information.

In a separate development, The Yomiuri Shimbun reported that the controversial Japanese Foreign Minister, Ms. Makiko Tanaka, is likely to visit Islamabad for talks with the Pakistani President, Gen. Pervez Musharraf.

Ms. Tanaka is scheduled to discuss the U.S. military campaign in Afghanistan and the issue of Afghan refugees who continue to cross into Pakistan.

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Section  : International
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