Identifier
Created
Classification
Origin
06TOKYO3814
2006-07-09 22:55:00
UNCLASSIFIED
Embassy Tokyo
Cable title:
DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
how-toVZCZCXRO3358 PP RUEHFK RUEHKSO RUEHNAG RUEHNH DE RUEHKO #3814/01 1902255 ZNR UUUUU ZZH P 092255Z JUL 06 FM AMEMBASSY TOKYO TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 4110 INFO RUEKJCS/SECDEF WASHDC PRIORITY RHEHAAA/THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON DC PRIORITY RUEAWJA/USDOJ WASHDC PRIORITY RULSDMK/USDOT WASHDC PRIORITY RUCPDOC/USDOC WASHDC PRIORITY RUEAIIA/CIA WASHDC PRIORITY RUEKJCS/JOINT STAFF WASHDC//J5// RHHMUNA/HQ USPACOM HONOLULU HI RHHMHBA/COMPACFLT PEARL HARBOR HI RHMFIUU/HQ PACAF HICKAM AFB HI//CC/PA// RHMFIUU/COMUSJAPAN YOKOTA AB JA//J5/JO21// RUYNAAC/COMNAVFORJAPAN YOKOSUKA JA RUAYJAA/COMPATWING ONE KAMI SEYA JA RUEHNH/AMCONSUL NAHA 9696 RUEHFK/AMCONSUL FUKUOKA 7093 RUEHOK/AMCONSUL OSAKA KOBE 0392 RUEHNAG/AMCONSUL NAGOYA 6980 RUEHKSO/AMCONSUL SAPPORO 8240 RUEHBJ/AMEMBASSY BEIJING 3166 RUEHUL/AMEMBASSY SEOUL 9314 RUCNDT/USMISSION USUN NEW YORK 1059
UNCLAS SECTION 01 OF 09 TOKYO 003814
SIPDIS
SIPDIS
DEPT FOR E, P, EB, EAP/J, EAP/P, EAP/PD, PA
WHITE HOUSE/NSC/NEC; JUSTICE FOR STU CHEMTOB IN ANTI-TRUST DIVISION;
TREASURY/OASIA/IMI/JAPAN; DEPT PASS USTR/PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE;
SECDEF FOR JCS-J-5/JAPAN,
DASD/ISA/EAPR/JAPAN; DEPT PASS ELECTRONICALLY TO USDA
FAS/ITP FOR SCHROETER; PACOM HONOLULU FOR PUBLIC DIPLOMACY ADVISOR;
CINCPAC FLT/PA/ COMNAVFORJAPAN/PA.
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: OIIP KMDR KPAO PGOV PINR ECON ELAB JA
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
ARTICLES:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
NIHON KEIZAI (Top play) (Excerpts)
Eve., July 7, 2006
Discussions of North Korea's ballistic missile launches are
continuing at the United Nations. The Chinese government yesterday
proposed a chairman's statement it drafted at the UN. This
chairman's statement has less binding force than a resolution
proposed by Japan, the United States, and other countries. The
resolution is designed to impose sanctions against North Korea. On
the other hand, China's move is apparently intended to check
hard-liners against North Korea. Japan is strongly opposing China
and aims to push for the resolution. Amid North Korea's harsh
criticism of Japan's sanction measures, diplomats of major countries
who are concerned about another launching of a missile by North
Korea are contacting each other and discussing the issue. The US and
Russia are arranging a summit meeting. Japan's Ministry of Foreign
Affairs (MOFA) Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau Director-General
Kenichiro Sasae will arrive in Beijing this afternoon.
Japan opposes China's proposal
Hiroyuki Nakamae, New York
During a meeting of the permanent UN Security Council (UNSC) members
plus six countries, including Japan, China proposed a chairman's
statement, eliminating most of de facto sanction measures covered by
the Japan-initiated resolution condemning North Korea, for instance,
a halt to providing funds and technologies leading to missile
development. Unlike the resolution, the chairman's statement has no
binding force, so it does not obligate the member nations to abide
by what it states. Japan and the US proceed to get the resolution
adopted as quickly as possible at the UNSC. Whether coordination
will be made between the two proposals remains to be seen.
The resolution proposed by Japan, the US and other countries is
created in accordance with the UN Charter's Article 7, a provision
that enables the member nations to impose economic sanctions in
order to secure the effectiveness of the contents of the resolution.
In addition, the resolution is in effect designed to impose
sanctions on North Korea by calling on the member nations to stop
providing funds and technologies to the North.
The details of the chairman's statement proposed by China have yet
to be made clear.
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
TOKYO 00003814 002 OF 009
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
NIHON KEIZAI (Page 3) (Full)
July 7, 2006
Hiroyuki Nakamae, New York
Horse-trading over whether to boost pressure on North Korea is
intensifying at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The
United States, teaming up with Japan and some countries, aim to get
a resolution condemning North Korea adopted at the UNSC. Meanwhile,
China and Russia, both friendly to North Korea and permanent UNSC
members with a veto right, are taking a cautious stand toward
adopting such a resolution. Building a consensus to support the
resolution seems likely to hit a snag. What will happen next in the
UNSC? We l provide three conceivable scenarios below.
Scenario 1: UNSC adopts resolution
A resolution, if adopted, obligates the member nations to fulfill
their duties specified in the UN Charter. An adopted resolution is
viewed as the strongest expression of the UN's intent. The
resolution drafted primarily by Japan and the US calls for North
Korean to immediate halt its missile development and test-launches.
The resolution also urges UN members to take the de facto
retaliatory actions.
If the resolution is adopted, the international community, following
the UN's seal of approval, will effectively encircle North Korea, an
act seen as putting strong pressure on that country.
China and Russia, however, seek only to issue a chairman's
statement, which has less binding force than a resolution. Many
member states are of the opinion that a resolution is less likely to
be adopted. Meanwhile, US Ambassador to the UN John Bolton told
reporters yesterday morning (late at night that same day, Japan
time),prior to an ambassador level UNSC meeting, that the draft
resolution is rallying "strong support from a broad range of
nations." "Nations that don't favor the resolution have the right to
abstain (from voting)," Bolton added, indicating his enthusiasm
about getting the resolution adopted.
"China and Russia cannot approve North Korea's continuing to launch
missiles," Prime Minister Junichio Koizumi told reporters yesterday,
underscoring his intention to earnestly work on China and Russia to
dissuade them from opposing the resolution.
Scenario 2: Chairman's statement condemning North Korea
A chairman's statement is a means to express the consensus of the
UNSC members, but it does not have binding force, though it has a
warning effect.
TOKYO 00003814 003 OF 009
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
In order to adopt a chairman's statement, the UNSC in principle
needs to obtain a unanimous agreement, so if China or Russia, which
are both negative about retaliatory action, raise a clear objection,
the statement cannot be adopted. In order to make it easy for China
and Russia to approve the release of the chairman's statement, "The
statement should be considerably toned down," a diplomatic source at
the UN said.
Even if a chairman's statement is adopted, there is the possibility
that the situation will not be resolved soon. Instead, it may be
prolonged like the case of Iran's nuclear program. Discussion at the
UNSC would be stalled.
Immediately after the missile launches, Japan announced its own
sanction measures. Japan, the US, and Europe may join hands in the
end to form a "coalition of the willing" and impose sanctions on
North Korea.
In this case, retaliatory measures may not be effective enough
because Japan cannot obtain cooperation from its neighbors, China
and South Korea.
Scenario 3: Only a press statement released
A press statement has a certain effect, but it is the weakest form
for the UNSC to express its intent. The release of a press statement
implies that there is discord in the UNSC and reveals the existence
of discord outside the UNSC, as well.
When North Korea test-fired a Taepodong-1 ballistic missile in 1998,
China disapproved of the adoption of a resolution or a chairman's
statement. So, only a press statement expressing concerns was
released. This came, in part because the Clinton administration at
the time wanted to avoid actions that might irritate North Korea,
because it was emphasizing the resolution of the nuclear issue.
In the current situation, China and Russia are unlikely to concede
(to the call of some countries to issue a resolution),because both
countries are expected to accept the release of a chairman's
statement.
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
SHUKAN SHINCHO (Pages 17-18) (Full)
July 13, 2006
Tomiyachi is a tiny village facing the Japan Sea in the city of
Tsugaru in Aomori Prefecture. Spread across its flat plain, as far
SIPDIS
as the eye can see are barns, fields and paddies. It looks like the
kind of sleepy farm village that artists draw, yet if you look off
TOKYO 00003814 004 OF 009
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
to the side of the farm road in this village, a surprise is in store
for you.
What suddenly jumps up before you is a sign in English with the word
"Warning" on it. If you fearfully approach the place, you can see
brawny foreigners carrying pistols and rifles and swinging around
with angry looks on their faces.
If we first back up and explain the situation, the location used to
be a small detachment of the Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF). There
used to be approximately 300 ASDF personnel stationed there to
operate Patriot missiles, but since June 23, a portion of this
facility was borrowed by the US military to set up X-Band radar, the
state-of-the-art anti-missile radar, which has only been installed
so far in two bases in the world.
Although such an installation is probably unavoidable given the
present situation of North Korea being ready to fire missiles at any
moment, the sign on the fence clearly identifies the area as a "U.S.
Army Installation." Although the area was borrowed briefly from the
ASDF, no matter how you look at it, it seems to be a US military
base. Moreover, the road along the base is a city highway, connected
to the seashore and used daily. The local residents pass along this
road so that they can go enjoy fishing. Still, according to a
resident who lives close by, "Recently, when I passed along that
road, I was glared at by the soldiers there who sounded off in
English. It seemed like they were telling me to stop."
A tranquil village in one night was transformed into a US base town.
From the 26th, an area was designated a flight-restricted zone, and
what's more, this kind of explanation came from a source connected
to the Defense Agency: "Officially, the only military personnel are
radar technicians, but the guards are civilian contractors. These
civilians are the ones who are armed with guns."
However, according to the warning sign, it is prohibited to take
photos even from the road or to have such in one's possession. If
that so, since Shukan Shincho has taken photos (featured in this
article),as you can see, what will happen to us?
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
MAINICHI (Page 10) (Full)
July 6, 2006
By Akihiko Tanaka, professor of international political science at
Tokyo University
North Korea's missile launches might be likened to a mischievous act
TOKYO 00003814 005 OF 009
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
by a fretful, ignored child wanting to draw attention to himself.
Otherwise, I cannot fathom any intentions from that country. There
may be some internal trouble.
Test-firing missiles without prior notice clearly violates
international rules, as well as the Japan-North Korea Pyongyang
Declaration. Such an act also goes against the six-party talks that
are aimed at resolving the issue of North Korea's nuclear program.
The premise for the six-party talks is a moratorium on ballistic
missile tests. It is only natural and appropriate for the United
Nations Security Council (UNSC) to criticize North Korea. But it
would be difficult (for the UNSC) to take action other than
criticizing that country unless the Chinese government approves a
resolution condemning North Korea.
China, the host of the six-party talks, must have been displeased by
the missile launches. All the more because China had until recently
told the United States and Japan not to take a tough stance against
North Korea, it may probably feel it has now lost face. The same
holds true of South Korea. Both China and South Korea will find it
difficult to assume a conciliatory attitude toward North Korea for a
while. The US is likely to further toughen the hard-line stance it
has taken since last September. Japan, too, which has just decided
to impose sanctions on the North, will take a firmer attitude.
The international situation in this sense will be charged with
uncertainties, but we need to be calm in thinking about this
situation, because this sort of tension has continued since 2002.
The only course for North Korea is to announce that it will abolish
all nuclear weapons and return to the six-party talks
unconditionally.
My concern is whether North Korea can make such a rational decision.
In criticizing North Korea, the UN must make Kim Jong Il fully
realize that the act he has taken now is nonproductive and
accomplishes nothing. Japan and the US will not change their stands.
So, the key to this situation lies in China's next move.
DPRK expects a policy switch of Bush administration
By Masao Okonogi, professor of international political science at
Keio University
North Korea's desire is to hold bilateral talks with the US for
normalization of diplomatic relations, including the resolution of
the nuclear issue. This desire remains the same. The North's message
contained in its missile launches is that there is no other choice
but for it to advance nuclear and missile development programs if
(the US) does not respond to bilateral talks. This is the same as
the North's past message.
TOKYO 00003814 006 OF 009
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
But the timing of the launches and the way the missiles were
launched were different from past patterns taken by the North. In
order to maximize the impact of missile launching, North Korea
should have had in mind the off-year elections in the US or the US
presidential election. But this time it did not. It launched seven
missiles, including Scud and Rodong missiles. The launches appeared
to be a kind of a military exercise. In other words, the North,
since the US refuses to negotiate with it, feels it has been driven
into a corner and must resort to a violent measure.
One can also see the missile launches as the result of some kind of
key decision made internally over such questions as who will succeed
North Korean leader Kim Jong Il, and North Korea demonstrating to
the world the unity of the nation. I don't think there is internal
discord in North Korea.
The missile launches are untenable for China and South Korea, but
how far they will fall into line if Japan and the US come up with a
tough resolution at the UNSC remains to be seen. Should North
Korea's political system collapse, China would be greatly affected,
so it would remain reluctant to drive North Korea in the corner. The
same holds true of South Korea.
The launches are not the climax but only Act 1 in North Korea's
brinkmanship. My understanding is that North Korea has begun playing
a long game. I would not be surprised if a similar incident happens
again this fall.
I wonder if North Korea expects the US to modify its North Korea
policy as a result of a growing criticism in the US Congress and
other circles that the Bush administration has failed in its North
Korea policy. If this does not happen, the North may wait for the
next presidential election. If such is the case, it would be
difficult to resume the six-party talks for the time being.
More calls for Abe as successor to Koizumi likely
By Takashi Mikuriya, professor of Japanese political history at
Tokyo University
Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi is really lucky. Amid such
uncertainties as the Diet situation and the abduction issue, North
Korea has again emerged as the enemy. So, his administration will
now gain steam instead of losing it. He might be regaining his
political vigor in thinking about how best to use this opportunity.
This situation will affect the so-called Yasukuni issue. The prime
minister may delay a visit to Yasukuni Shrine to sometime after the
anniversary of the end of the war on Aug. 15 in an effort not to
further strain relations with China out of national-security
considerations. Conversely, he may pay homage at the shrine on Aug.
TOKYO 00003814 007 OF 009
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
15, toughening his stand against China for its inability to contain
North Korea.
When it comes to the impact on the LDP presidential race to
determine who will succeed Prime Minister Koizumi, Chief Cabinet
Secretary Shinzo Abe is placed at an advantage. The number of
SIPDIS
supporters is likely to increase, faced with the questions of how
Japan should deal with a rogue state and strengthen the Japan-US
alliance.
The key to this is whether Koizumi will give Abe a free hand to deal
with the issue of missile launches. Koizumi may leave the issue
entirely in Mr. Abe's hands, even though that would mean discarding
the Japan-North Korea Pyongyang Declaration. Mr. Abe then could
handily beat other contenders if he demonstrated his capabilities in
the coming two months.
Based on his remarks about the missile issue, Foreign Minister Taro
Aso appears to be tougher than Abe. But Aso has made strong remarks
only because he is running behind Abe in the LDP presidential
campaign. Former Chief Cabinet Secretary Yasuo Fukuda's moves draw
the public's attention, but given his current status, he cannot say
anything nor can he produce actual results.
Should this situation gave a boost to Abe and an Abe administration
is born, calls for a switch to a younger generation of politicians
would increase even further. Ichiro Ozawa, head of the Democratic
Party of Japan (Minshuto),who is the same age as Koizumi, would be
put in a difficult situation.
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
TOKYO SHIMBUN (Page 26) (Abridged slightly)
July 7, 2006
Chief Cabinet Secretary Shinzo Abe held four press conferences on
July 5 in the wake of the missile launches by North Korea. The
missile launches provided Abe, a leading hawk on North Korea, with a
golden opportunity to boost his presence as a promising post-Koizumi
contender. In dealing with the launches, the government also played
up close defense cooperation with the US military. The missile
launches apparently worked favorably for Abe and the government.
On July 5, Abe arrived at Kantei (Prime Minister's Official
Residence) at 4:30 a.m., ahead of other ministers, and held an
emergency press conference shortly after 6 a.m. to announce the
North's missile launches. Abe held three more press conferences that
day. He even released a statement condemning the North, an unusual
case.
TOKYO 00003814 008 OF 009
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
Political analyst Minoru Morita described Abe's action this way:
"The North didn't fire the missiles into Japanese waters, but Abe
handled the case as if Pyongyang was waging a war. He went too far.
He obviously thinks this is a good chance to pave the way for an Abe
cabinet, figuring that the more he pounds on the North in the press
meetings, the more he will win public support. Abe released a formal
statement instead of a comment, which was more appropriate. This
also tells us that he is using the missile launches on behalf of the
LDP presidential race."
Kichiya Kobayashi, also a political analyst, took this view:
"The LDP is split on Japan's response to the missile launches. It is
true that some LDP members share Abe's view that Japan should take
harsh measures against the North. But the launches do not
necessarily give an advantage to Abe. The North violated the
Pyongyang Declaration, which had been signed by the top Japanese and
North Korean leaders in the presence of Abe, who was deputy chief
cabinet secretary at the time. So Abe is not totally blameless.
Abe's extreme reaction exposed the fact that his camp consists
mainly of junior members who have no strategist in their midst."
The missile launches, however, seems to have set the stage for Abe
to highlight his stock argument and implement his hard-edged policy
toward North Korea. His popularity is likely to grow.
The missile launches have also given momentum to Japan's national
defense. The government played up the close intelligence sharing
between Japan and the United States. Moves to pursue greater
cooperation and arms buildup may follow.
Japan and the United States this summer will conclude an
intelligence sharing agreement on a missile defense (MD) system to
intercept ballistic missiles. This will allow the Air Self-Defense
Force to deploy ground-based PAC-3 missiles next March.
The launches also sparked calls for Japan to enhance capabilities to
gather intelligence independently without relying on the US
military. US early warning satellites first detected the launches.
The intelligence was then conveyed to the Self-Defense Forces via US
Forces Japan and other channels. Japanese information-gathering
satellites are devoid of such functions.
The LDP is considering presenting a bill allowing Japan to use space
for military purposes for self-defense by shifting the space
development policy, which has been limited for nonmilitary
purposes.
Test operation of an early-warning system called X-band radar, a key
component in the MD system, has started ahead of original schedule.
TOKYO 00003814 009 OF 009
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
The US military's interception of a US-bound Taepodong-2 based on
Japan's intelligence and Japan doing the same might constitute an
exercise of the right of collective-self defense under the Japanese
Constitution. If matters continue as they have until now, the
integration of the SDF and US Forces Japan will continue.
Cautiousness urged
One military expert said:
"The US military has little experience in intercepting missiles. It
is not clear whether the North intentionally fired those missiles
(apart from its regular military training) and whether they failed.
We must not rush to judgment before those points become clear."
Masaaki Gabe, a professor of international politics at the
University of the Ryukyus, also commented:
"Are the North Korean missiles really a threat? They might be just
playing with them. I don't think it's appropriate to pursue military
buildup by exaggerating the North Korean threat. We have to know the
North's true intentions first. It is meaningless to hastily respond
to the launches.
SCHIEFFER
SIPDIS
SIPDIS
DEPT FOR E, P, EB, EAP/J, EAP/P, EAP/PD, PA
WHITE HOUSE/NSC/NEC; JUSTICE FOR STU CHEMTOB IN ANTI-TRUST DIVISION;
TREASURY/OASIA/IMI/JAPAN; DEPT PASS USTR/PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE;
SECDEF FOR JCS-J-5/JAPAN,
DASD/ISA/EAPR/JAPAN; DEPT PASS ELECTRONICALLY TO USDA
FAS/ITP FOR SCHROETER; PACOM HONOLULU FOR PUBLIC DIPLOMACY ADVISOR;
CINCPAC FLT/PA/ COMNAVFORJAPAN/PA.
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: OIIP KMDR KPAO PGOV PINR ECON ELAB JA
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
ARTICLES:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
NIHON KEIZAI (Top play) (Excerpts)
Eve., July 7, 2006
Discussions of North Korea's ballistic missile launches are
continuing at the United Nations. The Chinese government yesterday
proposed a chairman's statement it drafted at the UN. This
chairman's statement has less binding force than a resolution
proposed by Japan, the United States, and other countries. The
resolution is designed to impose sanctions against North Korea. On
the other hand, China's move is apparently intended to check
hard-liners against North Korea. Japan is strongly opposing China
and aims to push for the resolution. Amid North Korea's harsh
criticism of Japan's sanction measures, diplomats of major countries
who are concerned about another launching of a missile by North
Korea are contacting each other and discussing the issue. The US and
Russia are arranging a summit meeting. Japan's Ministry of Foreign
Affairs (MOFA) Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau Director-General
Kenichiro Sasae will arrive in Beijing this afternoon.
Japan opposes China's proposal
Hiroyuki Nakamae, New York
During a meeting of the permanent UN Security Council (UNSC) members
plus six countries, including Japan, China proposed a chairman's
statement, eliminating most of de facto sanction measures covered by
the Japan-initiated resolution condemning North Korea, for instance,
a halt to providing funds and technologies leading to missile
development. Unlike the resolution, the chairman's statement has no
binding force, so it does not obligate the member nations to abide
by what it states. Japan and the US proceed to get the resolution
adopted as quickly as possible at the UNSC. Whether coordination
will be made between the two proposals remains to be seen.
The resolution proposed by Japan, the US and other countries is
created in accordance with the UN Charter's Article 7, a provision
that enables the member nations to impose economic sanctions in
order to secure the effectiveness of the contents of the resolution.
In addition, the resolution is in effect designed to impose
sanctions on North Korea by calling on the member nations to stop
providing funds and technologies to the North.
The details of the chairman's statement proposed by China have yet
to be made clear.
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
TOKYO 00003814 002 OF 009
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
NIHON KEIZAI (Page 3) (Full)
July 7, 2006
Hiroyuki Nakamae, New York
Horse-trading over whether to boost pressure on North Korea is
intensifying at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The
United States, teaming up with Japan and some countries, aim to get
a resolution condemning North Korea adopted at the UNSC. Meanwhile,
China and Russia, both friendly to North Korea and permanent UNSC
members with a veto right, are taking a cautious stand toward
adopting such a resolution. Building a consensus to support the
resolution seems likely to hit a snag. What will happen next in the
UNSC? We l provide three conceivable scenarios below.
Scenario 1: UNSC adopts resolution
A resolution, if adopted, obligates the member nations to fulfill
their duties specified in the UN Charter. An adopted resolution is
viewed as the strongest expression of the UN's intent. The
resolution drafted primarily by Japan and the US calls for North
Korean to immediate halt its missile development and test-launches.
The resolution also urges UN members to take the de facto
retaliatory actions.
If the resolution is adopted, the international community, following
the UN's seal of approval, will effectively encircle North Korea, an
act seen as putting strong pressure on that country.
China and Russia, however, seek only to issue a chairman's
statement, which has less binding force than a resolution. Many
member states are of the opinion that a resolution is less likely to
be adopted. Meanwhile, US Ambassador to the UN John Bolton told
reporters yesterday morning (late at night that same day, Japan
time),prior to an ambassador level UNSC meeting, that the draft
resolution is rallying "strong support from a broad range of
nations." "Nations that don't favor the resolution have the right to
abstain (from voting)," Bolton added, indicating his enthusiasm
about getting the resolution adopted.
"China and Russia cannot approve North Korea's continuing to launch
missiles," Prime Minister Junichio Koizumi told reporters yesterday,
underscoring his intention to earnestly work on China and Russia to
dissuade them from opposing the resolution.
Scenario 2: Chairman's statement condemning North Korea
A chairman's statement is a means to express the consensus of the
UNSC members, but it does not have binding force, though it has a
warning effect.
TOKYO 00003814 003 OF 009
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
In order to adopt a chairman's statement, the UNSC in principle
needs to obtain a unanimous agreement, so if China or Russia, which
are both negative about retaliatory action, raise a clear objection,
the statement cannot be adopted. In order to make it easy for China
and Russia to approve the release of the chairman's statement, "The
statement should be considerably toned down," a diplomatic source at
the UN said.
Even if a chairman's statement is adopted, there is the possibility
that the situation will not be resolved soon. Instead, it may be
prolonged like the case of Iran's nuclear program. Discussion at the
UNSC would be stalled.
Immediately after the missile launches, Japan announced its own
sanction measures. Japan, the US, and Europe may join hands in the
end to form a "coalition of the willing" and impose sanctions on
North Korea.
In this case, retaliatory measures may not be effective enough
because Japan cannot obtain cooperation from its neighbors, China
and South Korea.
Scenario 3: Only a press statement released
A press statement has a certain effect, but it is the weakest form
for the UNSC to express its intent. The release of a press statement
implies that there is discord in the UNSC and reveals the existence
of discord outside the UNSC, as well.
When North Korea test-fired a Taepodong-1 ballistic missile in 1998,
China disapproved of the adoption of a resolution or a chairman's
statement. So, only a press statement expressing concerns was
released. This came, in part because the Clinton administration at
the time wanted to avoid actions that might irritate North Korea,
because it was emphasizing the resolution of the nuclear issue.
In the current situation, China and Russia are unlikely to concede
(to the call of some countries to issue a resolution),because both
countries are expected to accept the release of a chairman's
statement.
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
SHUKAN SHINCHO (Pages 17-18) (Full)
July 13, 2006
Tomiyachi is a tiny village facing the Japan Sea in the city of
Tsugaru in Aomori Prefecture. Spread across its flat plain, as far
SIPDIS
as the eye can see are barns, fields and paddies. It looks like the
kind of sleepy farm village that artists draw, yet if you look off
TOKYO 00003814 004 OF 009
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
to the side of the farm road in this village, a surprise is in store
for you.
What suddenly jumps up before you is a sign in English with the word
"Warning" on it. If you fearfully approach the place, you can see
brawny foreigners carrying pistols and rifles and swinging around
with angry looks on their faces.
If we first back up and explain the situation, the location used to
be a small detachment of the Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF). There
used to be approximately 300 ASDF personnel stationed there to
operate Patriot missiles, but since June 23, a portion of this
facility was borrowed by the US military to set up X-Band radar, the
state-of-the-art anti-missile radar, which has only been installed
so far in two bases in the world.
Although such an installation is probably unavoidable given the
present situation of North Korea being ready to fire missiles at any
moment, the sign on the fence clearly identifies the area as a "U.S.
Army Installation." Although the area was borrowed briefly from the
ASDF, no matter how you look at it, it seems to be a US military
base. Moreover, the road along the base is a city highway, connected
to the seashore and used daily. The local residents pass along this
road so that they can go enjoy fishing. Still, according to a
resident who lives close by, "Recently, when I passed along that
road, I was glared at by the soldiers there who sounded off in
English. It seemed like they were telling me to stop."
A tranquil village in one night was transformed into a US base town.
From the 26th, an area was designated a flight-restricted zone, and
what's more, this kind of explanation came from a source connected
to the Defense Agency: "Officially, the only military personnel are
radar technicians, but the guards are civilian contractors. These
civilians are the ones who are armed with guns."
However, according to the warning sign, it is prohibited to take
photos even from the road or to have such in one's possession. If
that so, since Shukan Shincho has taken photos (featured in this
article),as you can see, what will happen to us?
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
MAINICHI (Page 10) (Full)
July 6, 2006
By Akihiko Tanaka, professor of international political science at
Tokyo University
North Korea's missile launches might be likened to a mischievous act
TOKYO 00003814 005 OF 009
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
by a fretful, ignored child wanting to draw attention to himself.
Otherwise, I cannot fathom any intentions from that country. There
may be some internal trouble.
Test-firing missiles without prior notice clearly violates
international rules, as well as the Japan-North Korea Pyongyang
Declaration. Such an act also goes against the six-party talks that
are aimed at resolving the issue of North Korea's nuclear program.
The premise for the six-party talks is a moratorium on ballistic
missile tests. It is only natural and appropriate for the United
Nations Security Council (UNSC) to criticize North Korea. But it
would be difficult (for the UNSC) to take action other than
criticizing that country unless the Chinese government approves a
resolution condemning North Korea.
China, the host of the six-party talks, must have been displeased by
the missile launches. All the more because China had until recently
told the United States and Japan not to take a tough stance against
North Korea, it may probably feel it has now lost face. The same
holds true of South Korea. Both China and South Korea will find it
difficult to assume a conciliatory attitude toward North Korea for a
while. The US is likely to further toughen the hard-line stance it
has taken since last September. Japan, too, which has just decided
to impose sanctions on the North, will take a firmer attitude.
The international situation in this sense will be charged with
uncertainties, but we need to be calm in thinking about this
situation, because this sort of tension has continued since 2002.
The only course for North Korea is to announce that it will abolish
all nuclear weapons and return to the six-party talks
unconditionally.
My concern is whether North Korea can make such a rational decision.
In criticizing North Korea, the UN must make Kim Jong Il fully
realize that the act he has taken now is nonproductive and
accomplishes nothing. Japan and the US will not change their stands.
So, the key to this situation lies in China's next move.
DPRK expects a policy switch of Bush administration
By Masao Okonogi, professor of international political science at
Keio University
North Korea's desire is to hold bilateral talks with the US for
normalization of diplomatic relations, including the resolution of
the nuclear issue. This desire remains the same. The North's message
contained in its missile launches is that there is no other choice
but for it to advance nuclear and missile development programs if
(the US) does not respond to bilateral talks. This is the same as
the North's past message.
TOKYO 00003814 006 OF 009
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
But the timing of the launches and the way the missiles were
launched were different from past patterns taken by the North. In
order to maximize the impact of missile launching, North Korea
should have had in mind the off-year elections in the US or the US
presidential election. But this time it did not. It launched seven
missiles, including Scud and Rodong missiles. The launches appeared
to be a kind of a military exercise. In other words, the North,
since the US refuses to negotiate with it, feels it has been driven
into a corner and must resort to a violent measure.
One can also see the missile launches as the result of some kind of
key decision made internally over such questions as who will succeed
North Korean leader Kim Jong Il, and North Korea demonstrating to
the world the unity of the nation. I don't think there is internal
discord in North Korea.
The missile launches are untenable for China and South Korea, but
how far they will fall into line if Japan and the US come up with a
tough resolution at the UNSC remains to be seen. Should North
Korea's political system collapse, China would be greatly affected,
so it would remain reluctant to drive North Korea in the corner. The
same holds true of South Korea.
The launches are not the climax but only Act 1 in North Korea's
brinkmanship. My understanding is that North Korea has begun playing
a long game. I would not be surprised if a similar incident happens
again this fall.
I wonder if North Korea expects the US to modify its North Korea
policy as a result of a growing criticism in the US Congress and
other circles that the Bush administration has failed in its North
Korea policy. If this does not happen, the North may wait for the
next presidential election. If such is the case, it would be
difficult to resume the six-party talks for the time being.
More calls for Abe as successor to Koizumi likely
By Takashi Mikuriya, professor of Japanese political history at
Tokyo University
Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi is really lucky. Amid such
uncertainties as the Diet situation and the abduction issue, North
Korea has again emerged as the enemy. So, his administration will
now gain steam instead of losing it. He might be regaining his
political vigor in thinking about how best to use this opportunity.
This situation will affect the so-called Yasukuni issue. The prime
minister may delay a visit to Yasukuni Shrine to sometime after the
anniversary of the end of the war on Aug. 15 in an effort not to
further strain relations with China out of national-security
considerations. Conversely, he may pay homage at the shrine on Aug.
TOKYO 00003814 007 OF 009
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
15, toughening his stand against China for its inability to contain
North Korea.
When it comes to the impact on the LDP presidential race to
determine who will succeed Prime Minister Koizumi, Chief Cabinet
Secretary Shinzo Abe is placed at an advantage. The number of
SIPDIS
supporters is likely to increase, faced with the questions of how
Japan should deal with a rogue state and strengthen the Japan-US
alliance.
The key to this is whether Koizumi will give Abe a free hand to deal
with the issue of missile launches. Koizumi may leave the issue
entirely in Mr. Abe's hands, even though that would mean discarding
the Japan-North Korea Pyongyang Declaration. Mr. Abe then could
handily beat other contenders if he demonstrated his capabilities in
the coming two months.
Based on his remarks about the missile issue, Foreign Minister Taro
Aso appears to be tougher than Abe. But Aso has made strong remarks
only because he is running behind Abe in the LDP presidential
campaign. Former Chief Cabinet Secretary Yasuo Fukuda's moves draw
the public's attention, but given his current status, he cannot say
anything nor can he produce actual results.
Should this situation gave a boost to Abe and an Abe administration
is born, calls for a switch to a younger generation of politicians
would increase even further. Ichiro Ozawa, head of the Democratic
Party of Japan (Minshuto),who is the same age as Koizumi, would be
put in a difficult situation.
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
TOKYO SHIMBUN (Page 26) (Abridged slightly)
July 7, 2006
Chief Cabinet Secretary Shinzo Abe held four press conferences on
July 5 in the wake of the missile launches by North Korea. The
missile launches provided Abe, a leading hawk on North Korea, with a
golden opportunity to boost his presence as a promising post-Koizumi
contender. In dealing with the launches, the government also played
up close defense cooperation with the US military. The missile
launches apparently worked favorably for Abe and the government.
On July 5, Abe arrived at Kantei (Prime Minister's Official
Residence) at 4:30 a.m., ahead of other ministers, and held an
emergency press conference shortly after 6 a.m. to announce the
North's missile launches. Abe held three more press conferences that
day. He even released a statement condemning the North, an unusual
case.
TOKYO 00003814 008 OF 009
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
Political analyst Minoru Morita described Abe's action this way:
"The North didn't fire the missiles into Japanese waters, but Abe
handled the case as if Pyongyang was waging a war. He went too far.
He obviously thinks this is a good chance to pave the way for an Abe
cabinet, figuring that the more he pounds on the North in the press
meetings, the more he will win public support. Abe released a formal
statement instead of a comment, which was more appropriate. This
also tells us that he is using the missile launches on behalf of the
LDP presidential race."
Kichiya Kobayashi, also a political analyst, took this view:
"The LDP is split on Japan's response to the missile launches. It is
true that some LDP members share Abe's view that Japan should take
harsh measures against the North. But the launches do not
necessarily give an advantage to Abe. The North violated the
Pyongyang Declaration, which had been signed by the top Japanese and
North Korean leaders in the presence of Abe, who was deputy chief
cabinet secretary at the time. So Abe is not totally blameless.
Abe's extreme reaction exposed the fact that his camp consists
mainly of junior members who have no strategist in their midst."
The missile launches, however, seems to have set the stage for Abe
to highlight his stock argument and implement his hard-edged policy
toward North Korea. His popularity is likely to grow.
The missile launches have also given momentum to Japan's national
defense. The government played up the close intelligence sharing
between Japan and the United States. Moves to pursue greater
cooperation and arms buildup may follow.
Japan and the United States this summer will conclude an
intelligence sharing agreement on a missile defense (MD) system to
intercept ballistic missiles. This will allow the Air Self-Defense
Force to deploy ground-based PAC-3 missiles next March.
The launches also sparked calls for Japan to enhance capabilities to
gather intelligence independently without relying on the US
military. US early warning satellites first detected the launches.
The intelligence was then conveyed to the Self-Defense Forces via US
Forces Japan and other channels. Japanese information-gathering
satellites are devoid of such functions.
The LDP is considering presenting a bill allowing Japan to use space
for military purposes for self-defense by shifting the space
development policy, which has been limited for nonmilitary
purposes.
Test operation of an early-warning system called X-band radar, a key
component in the MD system, has started ahead of original schedule.
TOKYO 00003814 009 OF 009
SUBJECT: DAILY SUMMARY OF JAPANESE PRESS 07/07/06
Part-1
INDEX:
(1) China proposes a chairman's statement at UNSC, aims to check
hard-liners; Sanction measures eliminated
(2) War of nerves unfolding at UNSC over whether to adopt
resolution condemning DPRK
(3) US military's secret base in northern Honshu
(4) Comments by experts on North Korea's missile launches: Tokyo
University Prof. Tanaka -- China, too, displeased with missile
launches
(5) Abe, Japan-US military alliance benefiting from North Korean
missile launches
The US military's interception of a US-bound Taepodong-2 based on
Japan's intelligence and Japan doing the same might constitute an
exercise of the right of collective-self defense under the Japanese
Constitution. If matters continue as they have until now, the
integration of the SDF and US Forces Japan will continue.
Cautiousness urged
One military expert said:
"The US military has little experience in intercepting missiles. It
is not clear whether the North intentionally fired those missiles
(apart from its regular military training) and whether they failed.
We must not rush to judgment before those points become clear."
Masaaki Gabe, a professor of international politics at the
University of the Ryukyus, also commented:
"Are the North Korean missiles really a threat? They might be just
playing with them. I don't think it's appropriate to pursue military
buildup by exaggerating the North Korean threat. We have to know the
North's true intentions first. It is meaningless to hastily respond
to the launches.
SCHIEFFER