A realistic discussion on Okinawa’s base issue from a national security perspective. Arimoto and Hyakuta reflect on balancing base reduction with security guarantees amid growing threats from China and North Korea. A crucial reflection on Japan’s strategic crossroads.

However, there is also the realism that we must protect precious Okinawa.
2018-01-16
The following continues from the previous chapter.
Arimoto
I do not consider it a good thing that there are military bases of another country, the United States, in Okinawa and throughout Japan.
However, there is also the realism that we must protect precious Okinawa.
While gradually reducing the number of U.S. bases in Okinawa, we must also create a system that can properly guarantee Okinawa’s security.
Regarding the resolution of this difficult issue, now that the threats from China and North Korea are growing even greater, it seems we have come to an especially important and difficult turning point.
Hyakuta
Mr. Abe should have heard my lecture.
During that lecture, I said many times, “There are many bases in Okinawa. As someone living on the mainland, I truly feel sorry,” and I bowed my head many times.
Mr. Abe must have seen that.
I also spoke about the reasons why bases exist in Okinawa.
“It is geopolitically extremely important. And at present, bases exist in Okinawa to counter the threat from China. I am truly sorry.”
I said this many times, didn’t I.
Mr. Abe should have heard it.
Please write that properly.
(Broadcast on November 28, 2017)