The Japanese Navy will terminate a naval refuelling mission in support of US led operations in Afghanistan as the mandate expires in January 2010, according to Defence Minister Toshimi Kitazawa.

The Japan Maritime Self Defence Force will remove the two ships from the Indian Ocean, where they have been deployed since 2001.

Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama, who recently took office, has opposed the mission and said the country should take other measures to help Afghanistan restore peace.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirofumi Hirano said that Japan is studying what other contributions would be best for the region and hoped to come up with a proposal within weeks.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

“We believe that civilian support for the people’s livelihood in that country, such as agricultural reconstruction, would lead to a fundamental solution to what constitutes the basis of terrorism,” Hirano said.