GERMAN CHANCELLOR WARNS OZAWA NOT TO CEASE OEF

C O N F I D E N T I A L TOKYO 004040 SIPDIS SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 08/29/2017 TAGS: PREL PGOV MOPS MARR GM JA SUBJECT: GERMAN CHANCELLOR WARNS OZAWA NOT TO CEASE OEF REFUELING OPERATIONS Classified By: Charge D'Affairs Joseph R. Donovan for reasons 1.4 (b) and (d). (C) German Chancellor Merkel made it clear "in no uncertain terms" to DPJ President Ozawa during an August 30 meeting that Japan should continue its refueling support for operations in the Indian Ocean, German Deputy Chief of Mission Bernd Fisher told A/DCM Mike Meserve by phone after the meeting. In response to Ozawa's claim that the mission to Afghanistan is not officially sanctioned by the United Nations, Merkel warned him of the impact a Japanese withdrawal would have on Germany. Fisher, who was in the meeting, reported that Ozawa's thinking on OEF was "fuzzy and unfocused." Merkel has also discussed the Special Measures Law with PM Abe. German Parliamentarians traveling with Merkel will convey the same strong message that Merkel gave Ozawa to DPJ headquarters and Diet members. The Chancellor's message will strengthen the position of DPJ members who support the Special Measures Law, finished Fisher, noting that the DPJ is not unified in its opposition to an extension. DONOVAN