TOKYO MEDIA REACTION - AFGHANISTAN

UNCLAS TOKYO 002105 SIPDIS STATE FOR I/RF, PA/PR/FPC/W, IIP/G/EA, EAP/PD, R/MR, EAP/J, EAP/P, PM; USTR FOR PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE; TREASURY FOR OASIA/IMI; SECDEF FOR OASD/PA; CP BUTLER OKINAWA FOR AREA FIELD OFFICE; PACOM HONOLULU FOR PUBLIC DIPLOMACY ADVISOR E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: OIIP KMDR KPAO JA SUBJECT: TOKYO MEDIA REACTION - AFGHANISTAN ¶1. LEAD STORIES: Most Friday morning papers front-paged ongoing coordination within the DPJ to select ministers for the Hatoyama cabinet. ¶2. "Do Not Allow Afghanistan to Harbor Terrorists Again" The top-circulation, moderate Yomiuri editorialized (9/11): "In order to prevent the reemergence of international terrorism, Afghanistan must not be allowed to once again become a 'failed state' that houses terrorist organizations.... What is worrying is that public opinion in countries committing troops to Afghanistan is becoming negative [about continued force deployment].... The international community must not be allowed to give up on the war on terrorism no matter how long and difficult it is going to be. It is necessary to unite, cooperate, and reconstruct the antiterrorism campaign." ¶3. "Beyond 'War on Terrorism'" The liberal Asahi insisted in an editorial: "President Obama is committing more troops to Afghanistan based on the judgment that it is a necessary war. However, the situation there appears to be deteriorating.... Afghan reconstruction is one of the most difficult challenges confronting the international community. However, one thing is clear. A path toward victory over Islamic extremists will not emerge without deeper dialogue with the Muslim community." ¶4. "Enhance Dialogue to Create a Safe World" An editorial in the liberal Mainichi argued: "Afghan insurgents who fought against Soviet troops following the 1979 invasion were praised at the time by the U.S. and others as 'heroic Islamic warriors.' Is it correct to lump these armed insurgents, who may be fighting against the U.S. 'occupation,' together with terrorists? It is necessary to conduct extensive dialogue and gather more friends in order to discern real enemies. It goes without saying that the response to the Afghan situation will have an impact on global security." ROOS