TOKYO — Defense Secretary Robert Gates warned today that Japan and its neighbors must do more to confront security problems in Asia, calling it one of the “last places on earth with the potential for a nuclear confrontation.”
It will take more than one or two countries to overcome the threats from North Korea and nuclear proliferation, Gates said in a speech at Sophia University that stressed the United States’ continued commitment to Asia yet cautioned that other allies must step up.
“Japan has the opportunity – and an obligation – to take on a role that reflects its political, economic and military capacity,” Gates said. “We hope and expect Japan to accept more global security responsibilities in the years ahead.”
Speaking in a country well within missile reach of North Korea, Gates used the speech to caution the Japanese to be mindful that unrest in the Mideast could reach their shores too.
“As we’ve learned on more than once occasion, instability or failed states halfway around the world can have serious implications at home,” he said. “It is worth remembering that Japan imports 80 percent of its oil from the gulf to power its economy.”
Gates’ remarks came as Japanese officials remained at odds over Tokyo’s recent decision to pull warships from their Indian Ocean refueling mission in support of the U.S.-led coalition operations in Afghanistan.
Gates said the U.S. alone can’t block the flow of weapons to terrorists in the Middle East, which is why partners are needed for security operations and to interrupt shipments.
Japanese Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba, in a news conference Thursday, referred to ongoing efforts by the government to reach a compromise to resume the refueling mission, saying it is important for Japan’s national interests.
