Japan: Too early to discuss Iraq pullout
(AP)
Updated: 2006-05-26 14:05 Japan won't decide whether to
withdraw its troops from Iraq until Baghdad names its internal affairs and
defense ministers, Japan's foreign minister said Friday.
Tokyo has some 600 troops based in the southern Iraqi city of Samawah for
non-combat humanitarian work, and speculation is high that the soldiers will be
withdrawn this year.
But Foreign Minister Taro Aso told reporters it was too soon to discuss a
pullout.
"The internal affairs minister and defense minister, who are responsible for
security, have not been appointed ... I think negotiations (about Japanese
troops) will begin when they are named," Aso told reporters.
In addition, public broadcaster NHK quoted Aso as saying Japan will have to
study the Iraqi security situation carefully.
NHK added that Japan would make a decision after consulting with the United
States and Britain.
Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki has said he would make his choice for
the two crucial security posts, which were not filled last week along with the
rest of his Cabinet because of ethnic and sectarian disagreements.
Al-Maliki says the decision could come as early as Friday, paving the way for
their swearing-in on Sunday, when parliament reconvenes.
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