Japan stresses commitment to Iraq’s reconstruction

BAGHDAD / IraqiNews.com: Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso on Thursday reiterated his country’s commitment to contribute to the reconstruction of Iraq, according to an Iraqi presidential statement. “Japan’s commitment to reconstruction works in Iraq will remain the same even after its Self-Defense Forces end their mission,” read the statement that was received by IraqiNews.com news agency. Japan is determined to continue offering assistance for the rebuilding of Iraq, according to the Japanese official. In June 2006, Japan withdrew 600 of its land forces from Samawa city in southern Iraq following a mission that lasted over two years. “In Madrid conference, Japan has vowed to offer $5 billion U.S. dollars in economic assistance to Iraq and to reduce Iraq’s debts owed to it by $6 billion,” Aso added. SS (P)/ SR 1