Currently released so far... 97115 / 251,287
Articles
Brazil
Sri Lanka
United Kingdom
Sweden
00. Editorial
United States
Latin America
Egypt
Jordan
Yemen
Thailand
Browse latest releases
2010/12/01
2010/12/02
2010/12/03
2010/12/04
2010/12/05
2010/12/06
2010/12/07
2010/12/08
2010/12/09
2010/12/10
2010/12/11
2010/12/12
2010/12/13
2010/12/14
2010/12/15
2010/12/16
2010/12/17
2010/12/18
2010/12/19
2010/12/20
2010/12/21
2010/12/22
2010/12/23
2010/12/25
2010/12/26
2010/12/27
2010/12/28
2010/12/29
2010/12/30
2011/01/01
2011/01/02
2011/01/04
2011/01/05
2011/01/07
2011/01/09
2011/01/11
2011/01/12
2011/01/13
2011/01/14
2011/01/15
2011/01/16
2011/01/17
2011/01/18
2011/01/19
2011/01/20
2011/01/21
2011/01/22
2011/01/23
2011/01/24
2011/01/25
2011/01/26
2011/01/27
2011/01/28
2011/01/29
2011/01/30
2011/01/31
2011/02/01
2011/02/02
2011/02/03
2011/02/04
2011/02/05
2011/02/06
2011/02/07
2011/02/08
2011/02/09
2011/02/10
2011/02/11
2011/02/12
2011/02/13
2011/02/14
2011/02/15
2011/02/16
2011/02/17
2011/02/18
2011/02/19
2011/02/20
2011/02/21
2011/02/22
2011/02/23
2011/02/24
2011/02/25
2011/02/26
2011/02/27
2011/02/28
2011/03/01
2011/03/02
2011/03/03
2011/03/04
2011/03/05
2011/03/06
2011/03/07
2011/03/08
2011/03/09
2011/03/10
2011/03/11
2011/03/13
2011/03/14
2011/03/15
2011/03/16
2011/03/17
2011/03/18
2011/03/19
2011/03/20
2011/03/21
2011/03/22
2011/03/23
2011/03/24
2011/03/25
2011/03/26
2011/03/27
2011/03/28
2011/03/29
2011/03/30
2011/03/31
2011/04/01
2011/04/02
2011/04/03
2011/04/04
2011/04/05
2011/04/06
2011/04/07
2011/04/08
2011/04/09
2011/04/10
2011/04/11
2011/04/12
2011/04/13
2011/04/14
2011/04/15
2011/04/16
2011/04/17
2011/04/18
2011/04/19
2011/04/20
2011/04/21
2011/04/22
2011/04/23
2011/04/24
2011/04/25
2011/04/26
2011/04/27
2011/04/28
2011/04/29
2011/04/30
2011/05/01
2011/05/02
2011/05/03
2011/05/04
2011/05/05
2011/05/06
2011/05/07
2011/05/09
2011/05/10
2011/05/11
2011/05/12
2011/05/13
2011/05/14
2011/05/15
2011/05/16
2011/05/17
2011/05/18
2011/05/19
2011/05/20
2011/05/21
2011/05/22
2011/05/23
2011/05/24
2011/05/25
2011/05/26
2011/05/27
2011/05/28
2011/05/29
2011/05/30
2011/05/31
2011/06/01
2011/06/02
2011/06/03
2011/06/04
2011/06/05
2011/06/06
2011/06/07
2011/06/08
2011/06/09
2011/06/10
2011/06/11
2011/06/12
2011/06/13
2011/06/14
2011/06/15
2011/06/16
2011/06/17
2011/06/18
2011/06/19
2011/06/20
2011/06/21
2011/06/22
2011/06/23
2011/06/24
2011/06/25
2011/06/26
2011/06/27
2011/06/28
2011/06/29
2011/06/30
2011/07/01
2011/07/02
2011/07/04
2011/07/05
2011/07/06
2011/07/07
2011/07/08
2011/07/10
2011/07/11
2011/07/12
2011/07/13
2011/07/14
2011/07/15
2011/07/16
2011/07/17
2011/07/18
2011/07/19
2011/07/20
2011/07/21
2011/07/22
2011/07/23
2011/07/25
2011/07/27
2011/07/28
2011/07/29
2011/07/31
2011/08/01
2011/08/02
2011/08/03
2011/08/05
2011/08/06
2011/08/07
2011/08/08
2011/08/10
2011/08/11
2011/08/12
2011/08/13
2011/08/15
2011/08/16
2011/08/17
2011/08/19
2011/08/21
2011/08/22
2011/08/23
2011/08/24
2011/08/25
Browse by creation date
Browse by origin
Embassy Athens
Embassy Asuncion
Embassy Astana
Embassy Asmara
Embassy Ashgabat
Embassy Apia
Embassy Antananarivo
Embassy Ankara
Embassy Amman
Embassy Algiers
Embassy Addis Ababa
Embassy Accra
Embassy Abuja
Embassy Abu Dhabi
Embassy Abidjan
Consulate Auckland
Consulate Amsterdam
Consulate Alexandria
Consulate Adana
American Institute Taiwan, Taipei
Embasy Bonn
Embassy Bujumbura
Embassy Buenos Aires
Embassy Budapest
Embassy Bucharest
Embassy Brussels
Embassy Bridgetown
Embassy Brazzaville
Embassy Bratislava
Embassy Brasilia
Embassy Bogota
Embassy Bishkek
Embassy Bern
Embassy Berlin
Embassy Belmopan
Embassy Belgrade
Embassy Beirut
Embassy Beijing
Embassy Banjul
Embassy Bangui
Embassy Bangkok
Embassy Bandar Seri Begawan
Embassy Bamako
Embassy Baku
Embassy Baghdad
Consulate Belfast
Consulate Barcelona
Embassy Cotonou
Embassy Copenhagen
Embassy Conakry
Embassy Colombo
Embassy Chisinau
Embassy Caracas
Embassy Canberra
Embassy Cairo
Consulate Curacao
Consulate Ciudad Juarez
Consulate Chiang Mai
Consulate Chennai
Consulate Chengdu
Consulate Casablanca
Consulate Cape Town
Consulate Calgary
Embassy Dushanbe
Embassy Dublin
Embassy Doha
Embassy Djibouti
Embassy Dili
Embassy Dhaka
Embassy Dar Es Salaam
Embassy Damascus
Embassy Dakar
DIR FSINFATC
Consulate Dusseldorf
Consulate Durban
Consulate Dubai
Consulate Dhahran
Embassy Guatemala
Embassy Grenada
Embassy Georgetown
Embassy Gaborone
Consulate Guayaquil
Consulate Guangzhou
Consulate Guadalajara
Embassy Helsinki
Embassy Harare
Embassy Hanoi
Consulate Hong Kong
Consulate Ho Chi Minh City
Consulate Hermosillo
Consulate Hamilton
Consulate Hamburg
Consulate Halifax
Embassy Kyiv
Embassy Kuwait
Embassy Kuala Lumpur
Embassy Kolonia
Embassy Kinshasa
Embassy Kingston
Embassy Kigali
Embassy Khartoum
Embassy Kathmandu
Embassy Kampala
Embassy Kabul
Consulate Krakow
Consulate Kolkata
Consulate Karachi
Consulate Kaduna
Embassy Luxembourg
Embassy Lusaka
Embassy Luanda
Embassy London
Embassy Lome
Embassy Ljubljana
Embassy Lisbon
Embassy Lima
Embassy Lilongwe
Embassy Libreville
Embassy La Paz
Consulate Leipzig
Consulate Lahore
Consulate Lagos
Mission USOSCE
Mission USNATO
Mission UNESCO
Mission Geneva
Embassy Muscat
Embassy Moscow
Embassy Montevideo
Embassy Monrovia
Embassy Mogadishu
Embassy Minsk
Embassy Mexico
Embassy Mbabane
Embassy Maseru
Embassy Maputo
Embassy Manila
Embassy Manama
Embassy Managua
Embassy Malabo
Embassy Madrid
Consulate Munich
Consulate Mumbai
Consulate Montreal
Consulate Monterrey
Consulate Milan
Consulate Merida
Consulate Melbourne
Consulate Matamoros
Consulate Marseille
Embassy Nouakchott
Embassy Nicosia
Embassy Niamey
Embassy New Delhi
Embassy Ndjamena
Embassy Nassau
Embassy Nairobi
Consulate Nuevo Laredo
Consulate Naples
Consulate Naha
Consulate Nagoya
Embassy Pristina
Embassy Pretoria
Embassy Praia
Embassy Prague
Embassy Port Of Spain
Embassy Port Moresby
Embassy Port Louis
Embassy Port Au Prince
Embassy Podgorica
Embassy Phnom Penh
Embassy Paris
Embassy Paramaribo
Embassy Panama
Consulate Ponta Delgada
Consulate Peshawar
REO Mosul
REO Kirkuk
REO Hillah
REO Basrah
Embassy Rome
Embassy Riyadh
Embassy Riga
Embassy Reykjavik
Embassy Rangoon
Embassy Rabat
Consulate Rio De Janeiro
Consulate Recife
Secretary of State
Embassy Suva
Embassy Stockholm
Embassy Sofia
Embassy Skopje
Embassy Singapore
Embassy Seoul
Embassy Sarajevo
Embassy Santo Domingo
Embassy Santiago
Embassy Sanaa
Embassy San Salvador
Embassy San Jose
Consulate Surabaya
Consulate Strasbourg
Consulate St Petersburg
Consulate Shenyang
Consulate Shanghai
Consulate Sapporo
Consulate Sao Paulo
Embassy Tunis
Embassy Tripoli
Embassy Tokyo
Embassy Tirana
Embassy The Hague
Embassy Tel Aviv
Embassy Tehran
Embassy Tegucigalpa
Embassy Tbilisi
Embassy Tashkent
Embassy Tallinn
Consulate Toronto
Consulate Tijuana
Consulate Thessaloniki
USUN New York
USMISSION USTR GENEVA
USEU Brussels
US Office Almaty
US Mission Geneva
US Mission CD Geneva
US Interests Section Havana
US Delegation, Secretary
US Delegation FEST TWO
UNVIE
UN Rome
Embassy Ulaanbaatar
Embassy Vilnius
Embassy Vientiane
Embassy Vienna
Embassy Vatican
Embassy Valletta
Consulate Vladivostok
Consulate Vancouver
Browse by tag
AF
ADANA
ASEC
AFIN
AMGT
AE
AORC
AID
AR
AO
AU
ASEAN
AGOA
AFGHANISTAN
AFFAIRS
AMED
APER
ASECARP
APEC
AEMR
AS
AA
ANET
AFLU
ABLD
AL
ASUP
AJ
APECO
AMER
ABUD
AODE
AM
AFSN
AESC
AND
AG
ALOW
AROC
AVIANFLU
ATRN
ACOA
AEGR
AMGMT
AADP
AFSI
ACABQ
APRM
AZ
AIDS
ASE
AGAO
ADCO
ABDALLAH
ARF
AIDAC
ACOTA
ASCH
AC
ASEG
AGR
ACS
AMCHAMS
AN
AMIA
ASIG
ADPM
ADB
ANARCHISTS
ALOWAR
ARM
AUC
AINF
AINT
AORG
AY
AVIAN
AMEDCASCKFLO
AK
ARSO
ARABBL
ASO
ANTITERRORISM
ARABL
AOWC
AGRICULTURE
ALJAZEERA
AMTC
AFINM
AOCR
ABER
ARR
AFPK
ASSEMBLY
ASSK
AZE
AORCYM
AINR
AGMT
AEC
ACKM
APRC
AIN
ASCC
AFPREL
ASED
APERTH
ASFC
ASECTH
AFSA
AOMS
AORCO
ANTXON
ARC
AFAF
ADIP
AIAG
AFARI
AEMED
AORL
AX
ASECAF
AOPC
ASECAFIN
AFZAL
APCS
AMB
AGUIRRE
AEMRASECCASCKFLOMARRPRELPINRAMGTJMXL
AIT
ARCH
AMEX
ALI
AQ
ATFN
AMBASSADOR
AORCD
AVIATION
ARAS
AINFCY
ACBAQ
AOPR
AREP
ALEXANDER
ATRD
AEIR
AOIC
ABLDG
ASEX
AFR
ASCE
ATRA
ASEK
AER
ALOUNI
AMCT
AVERY
APR
AMAT
AEMRS
ASPA
AFU
AMG
ATPDEA
ALL
AECL
ACAO
ASECKFRDCVISKIRFPHUMSMIGEG
AORD
AFL
AME
ADM
ASECPHUM
AGIT
ABT
ASECVE
AGUILAR
AT
ABMC
ALZUGUREN
ANGEL
ASR
ANTONIO
BMGT
BEXP
BM
BG
BL
BA
BR
BTA
BO
BY
BBSR
BLUE
BK
BF
BTIO
BELLVIEW
BE
BU
BN
BH
BD
BC
BTC
BILAT
BT
BX
BRUSSELS
BP
BB
BRPA
BUSH
BURMA
BMENA
BESP
BIT
BBG
BGD
BMEAID
BAGHDAD
BEN
BIO
BMOT
BWC
BLUNT
BURNS
BUT
BGMT
BAIO
BCW
BOEHNER
BFIF
BOL
BASHAR
BIMSTEC
BOU
BIDEN
BZ
BFIN
BTRA
BI
BHUM
BOIKO
BERARDUCCI
BOUCHAIB
BORDER
BEXPC
BTIU
BTT
BIOS
BEXB
BGPGOV
BOND
BLR
CE
CG
CH
CVR
CASC
CU
CI
CD
CO
CDG
CB
CJAN
CPAS
COM
CVIS
CMGT
CT
CENTCOM
CNARC
CTERR
COUNTER
CHIEF
CDC
CTR
CBW
COUNTRY
CLEARANCE
CY
CA
CM
CS
CWC
CN
CITES
CF
CWG
CIVS
CFIS
CASCC
CROATIA
CONS
COUNTERTERRORISM
CASA
COE
CJ
CHR
CODEL
CR
CBC
CACS
CHERTOFF
CAS
CONTROL
CONDITIONS
CONDOLEEZZA
CITEL
CV
CLINTON
CHG
CZ
CON
CTBT
CEN
CRIMES
COMMERCE
CLOK
CRISTINA
CFED
CARC
CND
CTM
CARICOM
COUNTRYCLEARANCE
CBTH
CHINA
CSW
CICTE
CJUS
CYPRUS
CW
CAMBODIA
CENSUS
CIDA
CRIME
CBG
CBE
CMGMT
CAIO
CEC
CARSON
CPCTC
CEDAW
COMESA
CVIA
CWCM
CEA
COSI
CAPC
CGEN
COPUOS
CGOPRC
COETRD
CKGR
CFE
CQ
CITT
CIC
CARIB
CVIC
CLO
CAFTA
CVISU
CHRISTOPHER
CACM
CIAT
CDB
CIS
CUL
CHAO
CNC
CL
CSEP
COMMAND
CENTER
COL
CAN
CAJC
CUIS
CONSULAR
CLMT
CIA
CBSA
CEUDA
CAC
CROS
CIO
CPUOS
CKOR
CVPR
CONG
CONTROLS
CEPTER
CVISCMGTCASCKOCIASECPHUMSMIGKIRF
CDCE
DPOL
DEMARCHE
DHS
DR
DA
DISENGAGEMENT
DEMOCRATIC
DEFENSE
DJ
DY
DARFUR
DHRF
DEA
DTRO
DPRK
DO
DARFR
DOC
DRL
DK
DOJ
DTRA
DOMESTIC
DAC
DOD
DEAX
DIEZ
DEOC
DELTAVIOLENCE
DCOM
DMINE
DRC
DCG
DPKO
DOMESTICPOLITICS
DE
DB
DOT
DEPT
DOE
DHLAKAMA
DHSX
DS
DKEM
DAO
DCM
DANIEL
DEM
DAVID
DCRM
ETRD
EAGR
ETTC
EAID
ECON
EFIN
ECIN
EINV
ELAB
EAIR
ENRG
EPET
EWWT
ECPS
EIND
EMIN
ELTN
EC
ETMIN
EUC
EZ
ET
ELECTIONS
ENVR
EU
EUN
EG
EINT
ER
ECONOMICS
ES
EMS
ENIV
EEB
EN
ECE
ECOSOC
EK
ENVIRONMENT
EFIS
EI
EWT
ENGRD
ECPSN
EXIM
EIAD
ERIN
ECPC
EDEV
ENGY
ECTRD
EPA
ESTH
ECCT
EINVECON
ENGR
ERTD
EUR
EAP
EWWC
ELTD
EL
EXIMOPIC
EXTERNAL
ETRDEC
ESCAP
ECO
EGAD
ELNT
ECONOMIC
ENV
ETRN
EIAR
EUMEM
ENRGPARMOTRASENVKGHGPGOVECONTSPLEAID
EREL
ECOM
ECONETRDEAGRJA
ETCC
ETRG
ECONOMY
EMED
ETR
ENERG
EITC
EFINOECD
EURM
EENG
ERA
EXPORT
ENRD
ECONEINVETRDEFINELABETRDKTDBPGOVOPIC
EGEN
EBRD
EVIN
ETRAD
ECOWAS
EFTA
ECONETRDBESPAR
EGOVSY
EPIN
EID
ECONENRG
EDRC
ESENV
ETT
EB
ENER
ELTNSNAR
ECHEVARRIA
ETRC
EPIT
EDUC
ESA
EFI
ENRGY
ESCI
EE
EAIDXMXAXBXFFR
EETC
ECIP
EIAID
EIVN
EBEXP
ESTN
EING
EGOV
ETRA
EPETEIND
ELAN
ETRDGK
EAIDRW
ETRDEINVECINPGOVCS
EPEC
ENVI
ELN
EAG
EPCS
EPRT
EPTED
ETRB
EUM
EAIDS
EFIC
EFINECONEAIDUNGAGM
EAIDAR
ESF
EIDN
ELAM
EDU
EV
EAIDAF
ECN
EDA
EXBS
EINTECPS
ENRGTRGYETRDBEXPBTIOSZ
EPREL
EAC
EINVEFIN
ETA
EAGER
EINDIR
ECA
ECLAC
ELAP
EITI
EUCOM
ECONEFINETRDPGOVEAGRPTERKTFNKCRMEAID
EARG
ELDIN
EINVKSCA
ENNP
EFINECONCS
EFINTS
ECCP
ETC
EAIRASECCASCID
EINN
ETRP
EAIDNI
EFQ
ECOQKPKO
EGPHUM
EBUD
ECONEINVEFINPGOVIZ
ENERGY
ELB
EINDETRD
EMI
ECONEFIN
EIB
EURN
ETRDEINVTINTCS
EIN
EFIM
ETIO
ELAINE
EMN
EATO
EWTR
EIPR
EINVETC
ETTD
ETDR
EIQ
ECONCS
EPPD
ENRGIZ
EISL
ESPINOSA
ELEC
EAIG
ESLCO
EUREM
ENTG
ERD
EINVECONSENVCSJA
EEPET
EUNCH
ECINECONCS
ETRO
ETRDECONWTOCS
ECUN
EFND
EPECO
EAIRECONRP
ERGR
ETRDPGOV
ECPN
ENRGMO
EPWR
EET
EAIS
EAGRE
EDUARDO
EAGRRP
EAIDPHUMPRELUG
EICN
ECONQH
EVN
EGHG
ELBR
EINF
EAIDHO
EENV
ETEX
ERNG
ED
FR
FREEDOM
FINREF
FJ
FI
FRELIMO
FOREIGN
FAA
FETHI
FAS
FTAA
FRB
FAO
FCS
FINANCE
FWS
FTA
FEMA
FDA
FLU
FRANCISCO
FBI
FORCE
FO
FARC
FK
FT
FCSC
FAC
FM
FMGT
FINV
FCSCEG
FARM
FERNANDO
FINR
FIN
FINE
FIR
FDIC
FOR
FOI
FCUL
FKLU
FMLN
FISO
FIXED
GM
GMUS
GG
GR
GE
GAZA
GT
GH
GZ
GJ
GLOBAL
GV
GABY
GOI
GA
GCC
GB
GY
GATT
GC
GUAM
GEORGE
GTIP
GOV
GOMEZ
GUTIERREZ
GL
GKGIC
GF
GU
GWI
GARCIA
GTMO
GN
GANGS
GIPNC
GAERC
GREGG
GUILLERMO
GASPAR
GERARD
GI
HK
HR
HUMANR
HUMAN
HO
HA
HUMANRIGHTS
HU
HHS
HIV
HUM
HRKAWC
HILLEN
HILLARY
HDP
HUMRIT
HSTC
HUMANITARIAN
HCOPIL
HADLEY
HURI
HL
HRETRD
HOURANI
HG
HARRIET
HESHAM
HI
HNCHR
HARRY
HRECON
HRC
HOSTAGES
HEBRON
HUMOR
HSWG
HYMPSK
HECTOR
HN
HYDE
HUD
HRPGOV
HIGHLIGHTS
ID
ILC
IS
IZ
ICAO
IMO
ITU
IR
IAEA
ICRC
IPROP
IT
IBRD
ISRAELI
IRAQI
ISSUES
ITRA
IV
IO
IGAD
IRAQ
IN
IMF
ICTR
ISCON
IADB
IDB
IEA
INR
IWC
ICCAT
ILO
INMARSAT
IOM
ICJ
IQ
ISPA
ITRD
IPR
INTELSAT
ISN
IAHRC
INTERNAL
IFAD
IICA
IHO
IRAN
IL
IRCE
IC
INTELLECTUAL
IRM
IE
ICTY
IDLI
IFO
ISCA
INF
INL
ISRAEL
INV
IBB
INFLUENZA
ISPL
ITER
ITIA
INRA
ISAF
IACHR
INTERPOL
IFR
IRS
INRB
IEF
ISAAC
ICC
INDO
IIP
IATTC
INAUGURATION
IND
INS
IZPREL
IACI
IEFIN
INNP
ILAB
IA
IMTS
ITALY
ITALIAN
IFIN
IRAJ
IX
ICG
IF
ITPHUM
ITA
IP
IACW
IK
IUCN
IZEAID
IRPE
IDA
ISLAMISTS
ITF
INRO
IBET
IDP
IRC
ISO
ICES
IRMO
ITPGOV
IQNV
IMSO
IRDB
IMET
INCB
IFRC
JA
JO
JP
JM
JCIC
JOHN
JE
JEFFERY
JS
JUS
JN
JOHNNIE
JAMES
JKUS
JOSEPH
JML
JAWAD
JSRP
JIMENEZ
JOSE
JKJUS
JK
JAPAN
KMDR
KPAO
KPKO
KJUS
KCRM
KGHG
KFRD
KWMN
KDEM
KTFN
KHIV
KGIC
KIDE
KSCA
KNNP
KHUM
KIPR
KSUM
KISL
KIRF
KCOR
KRCM
KPAL
KWBG
KN
KS
KOMC
KSEP
KFLU
KPWR
KTIA
KSEO
KMPI
KHLS
KICC
KSTH
KMCA
KVPR
KPRM
KE
KU
KZ
KFLO
KSAF
KTIP
KTEX
KBCT
KOCI
KOLY
KOR
KAWC
KACT
KUNR
KTDB
KSTC
KLIG
KSKN
KNN
KCFE
KCIP
KGHA
KHDP
KPOW
KUNC
KDRL
KV
KPREL
KCRS
KPOL
KRVC
KRIM
KGIT
KWIR
KT
KIRC
KOMO
KRFD
KUWAIT
KG
KFIN
KSCI
KTFIN
KFTN
KGOV
KPRV
KSAC
KGIV
KCRIM
KPIR
KSOC
KBIO
KW
KGLB
KMWN
KPO
KFSC
KSEAO
KSTCPL
KSI
KPRP
KREC
KFPC
KUNH
KCSA
KMRS
KNDP
KR
KICCPUR
KPPAO
KCSY
KTBT
KCIS
KNEP
KFRDCVISCMGTCASCKOCIASECPHUMSMIGEG
KNNB
KGCC
KINR
KPOP
KMFO
KENV
KNAR
KVIR
KDRG
KDMR
KFCE
KNAO
KDEN
KGCN
KICA
KIMMITT
KMCC
KLFU
KMSG
KSEC
KUM
KCUL
KMNP
KSMT
KCOM
KOMCSG
KSPR
KPMI
KRAD
KIND
KCRP
KAUST
KWAWC
KTER
KCHG
KRDP
KPAS
KITA
KTSC
KPAOPREL
KWGB
KIRP
KJUST
KMIG
KLAB
KTFR
KSEI
KSTT
KAPO
KSTS
KLSO
KWNN
KPOA
KHSA
KNPP
KPAONZ
KBTS
KWWW
KY
KJRE
KPAOKMDRKE
KCRCM
KSCS
KWMNCI
KESO
KWUN
KPLS
KIIP
KEDEM
KPAOY
KRIF
KGICKS
KREF
KTRD
KFRDSOCIRO
KTAO
KJU
KWMNPHUMPRELKPAOZW
KEN
KO
KNEI
KEMR
KKIV
KEAI
KWAC
KRCIM
KWCI
KFIU
KWIC
KCORR
KOMS
KNNO
KPAI
KBWG
KTTB
KTBD
KTIALG
KILS
KFEM
KTDM
KESS
KNUC
KPA
KOMCCO
KCEM
KRCS
KWBGSY
KNPPIS
KNNPMNUC
KWN
KERG
KLTN
KALM
KCCP
KSUMPHUM
KREL
KGH
KLIP
KTLA
KAWK
KWMM
KVRP
KVRC
KAID
KSLG
KDEMK
KX
KIF
KNPR
KCFC
KFTFN
KTFM
KPDD
KCERS
KMOC
KDEMAF
KMEPI
KEMS
KDRM
KEPREL
KBTR
KEDU
KNP
KIRL
KNNR
KMPT
KISLPINR
KTPN
KA
KJUSTH
KPIN
KDEV
KTDD
KAKA
KFRP
KWNM
KTSD
KINL
KJUSKUNR
KWWMN
KECF
KWBC
KPRO
KVBL
KOM
KFRDKIRFCVISCMGTKOCIASECPHUMSMIGEG
KEDM
KFLD
KLPM
KRGY
KNNF
KICR
KIFR
KM
KWMNCS
KAWS
KLAP
KPAK
KDDG
KCGC
KID
KNSD
KMPF
KPFO
KDP
KCMR
KRMS
KNPT
KNNNP
KTIAPARM
KDTB
KNUP
KPGOV
KNAP
KNNC
KUK
KSRE
KREISLER
KIVP
KQ
KTIAEUN
KPALAOIS
KRM
KISLAO
KWM
KFLOA
LE
LU
LH
LA
LG
LO
LY
LANTERN
LI
LABOR
LORAN
LTTE
LT
LAS
LAB
LAW
LVPR
LARREA
LEBIK
LAURA
LS
LOTT
LOVE
LR
LEON
LAVIN
LGAT
LV
LAOS
LOG
LN
LB
MOPS
MO
MARR
ML
MASS
MZ
MR
MNUC
MX
MV
MCC
MY
MEDIA
MTCRE
MG
MCAP
MOPPS
MP
MI
MK
MC
MD
MA
MU
MASC
MW
MT
MEPP
MN
MTCR
MH
MEPI
MIL
MNUCPTEREZ
MMAR
MICHAEL
MUNC
MDC
MPOS
MONUC
MAR
MGMT
MAS
MEPN
MENDIETA
MARIA
MONTENEGRO
MOOPS
MSG
MARITIME
MURRAY
MUKASEY
MOTO
MCA
MFO
MEX
MRSEC
MMED
MACP
MAAR
MINUSTAH
MCCONNELL
MAPP
MGT
MARQUEZ
MANUEL
MNUR
MCCAIN
MF
MOHAMMAD
MOHAMED
MNU
MFA
MILITANTS
MINORITIES
MTS
MLS
MILI
MIAH
MEETINGS
MERCOSUR
MED
MARAD
MNVC
MINURSO
MNUCUN
MIK
MARK
MBM
MPP
MILITARY
MAPS
MNUK
MILA
MTRRE
MACEDONIA
MICHEL
MASSMNUC
MUCN
MQADHAFI
MPS
MARRGH
MRCRE
MTRE
MORALES
MAP
MCTRE
MHUC
MOPSGRPARM
MOROCCO
MCAPS
NL
NU
NS
NI
NPT
NATO
NO
NG
NATEU
NSF
NZ
NAS
NP
NDP
NLD
NGO
NEPAD
NAFTA
NASA
NEA
NGUYEN
NIH
NK
NIPP
NONE
NR
NANCY
NEGROPONTE
NRR
NERG
NSSP
NSG
NSFO
NE
NATSIOS
NFSO
NATIONAL
NTDB
NT
NCD
NTSB
NRC
NELSON
NAM
NH
NPG
NEC
NSC
NFATC
NMFS
NATOIRAQ
NAR
NZUS
NARC
NCCC
NA
NC
NEW
NRG
NUIN
NOVO
NATOPREL
NEY
NV
NICHOLAS
NPA
NW
NARCOTICS
NORAD
NOAA
NON
NTTC
NKNNP
NMNUC
NUMBERING
ODIP
OIIP
OPRC
OSCE
OREP
OTRA
OPET
OSCI
OVIP
OECD
OCII
OUALI
OPDC
OEXC
OFPD
OPIC
OFDP
OPCW
OECV
OAS
OM
OMIG
ODAG
OPREP
ORA
OIC
OEXCSCULKPAO
OIG
OASS
OFFICIALS
ORTA
OSAC
OIL
OIE
OEXP
OPEC
OPDAT
OMS
OES
OHI
OMAR
OCRA
OFSO
OCBD
OSTA
OAO
ONA
OTP
ORC
OAU
OXEC
OA
ODPC
OPDP
OVIPPRELUNGANU
OASC
OSHA
OPCD
OTR
OPPI
OPCR
OF
OFDPQIS
OSIC
OHUM
OSTRA
OASCC
OBSP
OFDA
OPICEAGR
OIM
OGAC
OTA
OTRAORP
OPPC
OESC
OCEA
OVP
ON
OPAD
OTAR
OCS
ODC
OTRD
OCED
OSD
ORUE
OREG
PHUM
PINR
PTER
PGOV
PREL
PREF
PL
PM
PHSA
PE
PARM
PINS
PK
PUNE
PO
PALESTINIAN
PU
PBTS
PROP
PTBS
POL
POLI
PA
PGOVZI
POLMIL
POLITICAL
PARTIES
POLM
PD
POLITICS
POLICY
PAS
PMIL
PINT
PNAT
PV
PKO
PPOL
PERSONS
PING
PBIO
PH
PETR
PARMS
PRES
PCON
PETERS
PRELBR
PT
PLAB
PP
PAK
PDEM
PKPA
PSOCI
PF
PLO
PTERM
PJUS
PSOE
PELOSI
PROPERTY
PGOVPREL
PARP
PRL
PNIR
PHUMKPAL
PG
PREZ
PGIC
PBOV
PAO
PKK
PROV
PHSAK
PHUMPREL
PROTECTION
PGOVBL
PSI
PRELPK
PGOVENRG
PUM
PRELKPKO
PATTY
PSOC
PRIVATIZATION
PRELSP
PGOVEAIDUKNOSWGMHUCANLLHFRSPITNZ
PMIG
PREC
PAIGH
PROG
PSHA
PARK
PETER
POG
PHUS
PPREL
PS
PTERPREL
PRELPGOV
POV
PKPO
PGOVECON
POUS
PGOVPRELPHUMPREFSMIGELABEAIDKCRMKWMN
PWBG
PMAR
PREM
PAR
PNR
PRELPGOVEAIDECONEINVBEXPSCULOIIPBTIO
PARMIR
PGOVGM
PHUH
PARTM
PN
PRE
PTE
PY
POLUN
PPEL
PDOV
PGOVSOCI
PIRF
PGOVPM
PBST
PRELEVU
PGOR
PBTSRU
PRM
PRELKPAOIZ
PGVO
PERL
PGOC
PAGR
PMIN
PHUMR
PVIP
PPD
PGV
PRAM
PINL
PKPAL
PTERE
PGOF
PINO
PHAS
PODC
PRHUM
PHUMA
PREO
PPA
PEPFAR
PGO
PRGOV
PAC
PRESL
PORG
PKFK
PEPR
PRELP
PREFA
PNG
PGOVPHUMKPAO
PRELECON
PINOCHET
PFOR
PGOVLO
PHUMBA
PRELC
PREK
PHUME
PHJM
POLINT
PGOVPZ
PGOVKCRM
PGOVE
PHALANAGE
PARTY
PECON
PEACE
PROCESS
PLN
PRELSW
PAHO
PEDRO
PRELA
PASS
PPAO
PGPV
PNUM
PCUL
PGGV
PSA
PGOVSMIGKCRMKWMNPHUMCVISKFRDCA
PGIV
PRFE
POGOV
PEL
PBT
PAMQ
PINF
PSEPC
POSTS
PHUMPGOV
PVOV
PHSAPREL
PROLIFERATION
PENA
PRELTBIOBA
PIN
PRELL
PGOVPTER
PHAM
PHYTRP
PTEL
PTERPGOV
PHARM
PROTESTS
PRELAF
PKBL
PRELKPAO
PKNP
PARMP
PHUML
PFOV
PERM
PUOS
PRELGOV
PHUMPTER
PARAGRAPH
PERURENA
PBTSEWWT
PCI
PETROL
PINSO
PINSCE
PQL
PEREZ
PBS
RS
REFUGEES
RW
RP
RELFREE
RO
REGIONAL
RIGHTS
REACTION
REPORT
RU
RENAMO
RIGHTSPOLMIL
REFORM
RM
REFUGEE
REL
RELATIONS
ROW
RREL
REGION
RATIFICATION
RBI
RICE
ROOD
RODENAS
RUIZ
RODHAM
ROBERT
RGY
ROY
REUBEN
RELIGIOUS
RUEHZO
RODRIGUEZ
RUEUN
RELAM
RSP
RF
RSO
RCMP
REO
ROSS
RPTS
RENE
REID
RUPREL
RMA
RI
REMON
RPEL
RFE
RFIN
RA
RAFAEL
RAY
RUS
RPREL
ROBERTG
RECIN
RAMONTEIJELO
SNAR
SP
SN
SMIG
SL
SOCI
SU
SG
SF
SENV
SZ
SOE
SCUL
SY
SO
SR
SYR
SE
SA
SW
SIPDIS
SCIENCE
SADC
SI
SCI
SOCIETY
SC
SAARC
STR
SECRETARY
SANC
SSH
ST
SNA
SGWI
SEP
SOCIS
SETTLEMENTS
SPECIALIST
SK
SHUM
START
STET
SCVL
SREF
SCHUL
SCUIL
SYRIA
SECURITY
SPCE
SYAI
SMIL
SOWGC
STEPHEN
SNRV
SKCA
SENSITIVE
SECI
SNAP
SPP
SCUD
SOM
SPECI
SMIGBG
SENC
SCRM
SGNV
SECTOR
SENVEAGREAIDTBIOECONSOCIXR
SENVSXE
SASIAIN
SACU
SENVSPL
SWMN
STEINBERG
SOPN
SOCR
SCOI
SCRS
SILVASANDE
SWE
SARS
SNARIZ
SUDAN
SENVQGR
SM
SNARKTFN
SAAD
SD
SAN
SIPRNET
STATE
SENS
SUBJECT
SFNV
SECSTATE
SSA
SPCVIS
SOI
SOFA
SCULKPAOECONTU
SPTER
SKSAF
SENVKGHG
SHI
SEVN
SANR
SPSTATE
SMITH
SCOM
SH
SNARCS
SNARN
SIPRS
SNARM
SIPDI
SCPR
SNIG
SELAB
SULLIVAN
SENVENV
SECDEF
SOLIC
SOIC
SPAS
SASC
SOSI
SEC
SEN
SENVCASCEAIDID
TU
TH
TW
TSPA
TRGY
TPHY
TBIO
TIFA
TS
TZ
TX
TSPL
TT
TK
TC
TINT
TERFIN
TERRORISM
TIP
TURKEY
TI
TECHNOLOGY
TNGD
TRSY
TRAFFICKING
TOPEC
TPSL
TP
TD
TR
TA
TIO
TREATY
TO
THPY
TECH
TRADE
TPSA
TG
TAGS
TF
TRAD
THKSJA
TVBIO
TNDG
TN
TBIOZK
TWI
TV
TWL
TRT
TWRO
TSRY
TTPGOV
TAUSCHER
TRBY
TRBIO
TL
TPKO
TIA
TGRY
TSPAM
TREL
TNAR
TBI
TFIN
TPHYPA
TWCH
THOMMA
THOMAS
TERROR
TRY
TBID
TPP
TE
THANH
TJ
TBKIO
UNGA
USUN
UN
UG
UNSC
UK
UP
US
UNCTAD
UNVIE
UNHRC
USTR
UNAMA
UNCRIME
UNESCO
UV
UNDP
UNHCR
UNCSD
UNCHR
UZ
USAID
UNEP
UNO
UNPUOS
UY
UNDC
UNCITRAL
UNAUS
UNCND
UA
UNMIK
USTDA
USEU
USDA
UNICEF
UR
UNFICYP
USNC
USTRRP
UNODC
UNRWA
UNOMIG
USTRPS
USAU
USCC
UNEF
UNGAPL
UNFPA
UNSCE
USSC
UGA
UEU
UNMIC
UNTAC
UNION
UNCLASSIFIED
USPS
UNA
UMIK
USOAS
UNMOVIC
UNFA
UNAIDS
UNCHC
USGS
UNSE
UNRCR
UNTERR
USG
UE
UAE
UNWRA
UNCSW
UNSCR
UNCHS
UNDESCO
UNPAR
UNC
UB
UNSCS
UKXG
UNGACG
UNREST
UNHR
USPTO
UNFCYP
USCG
UNIDROIT
UNSCD
UPU
UNBRO
UNECE
USTRUWR
UNCC
UNESCOSCULPRELPHUMKPALCUIRXFVEKV
VM
VE
VT
VETTING
VN
VZ
VIS
VC
VTPREL
VIP
VTEAID
VTEG
VOA
VA
VTIZ
VANG
VISIT
VO
VENZ
VAT
VI
VEPREL
VEN
WFP
WTO
WHO
WTRO
WBG
WMO
WIPO
WA
WI
WSIS
WHA
WCL
WE
WMN
WEBZ
WS
WAR
WZ
WMD
WW
WILLIAM
WEET
WAEMU
WM
WWBG
WWT
WWARD
WITH
WMDT
WTRQ
WCO
WEU
WALTER
WRTO
WB
WHTI
WBEG
WCI
WEF
WAKI
WHOA
WGC
Browse by classification
Community resources
courage is contagious
Viewing cable 08TOKYO3427, JAPANESE MORNING PRESS HIGHLIGHTS 12/17/08
If you are new to these pages, please read an introduction on the structure of a cable as well as how to discuss them with others. See also the FAQs
Understanding cables
Every cable message consists of three parts:
- The top box shows each cables unique reference number, when and by whom it originally was sent, and what its initial classification was.
- The middle box contains the header information that is associated with the cable. It includes information about the receiver(s) as well as a general subject.
- The bottom box presents the body of the cable. The opening can contain a more specific subject, references to other cables (browse by origin to find them) or additional comment. This is followed by the main contents of the cable: a summary, a collection of specific topics and a comment section.
Discussing cables
If you find meaningful or important information in a cable, please link directly to its unique reference number. Linking to a specific paragraph in the body of a cable is also possible by copying the appropriate link (to be found at theparagraph symbol). Please mark messages for social networking services like Twitter with the hash tags #cablegate and a hash containing the reference ID e.g. #08TOKYO3427.
| Reference ID | Created | Released | Classification | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08TOKYO3427 | 2008-12-17 01:07 | 2011-08-25 00:00 | UNCLASSIFIED | Embassy Tokyo |
VZCZCXRO8001
PP RUEHFK RUEHKSO RUEHNAG RUEHNH
DE RUEHKO #3427/01 3520107
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
P 170107Z DEC 08
FM AMEMBASSY TOKYO
TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 9505
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/USFJ //J5/JO21//
RUYNAAC/COMNAVFORJAPAN YOKOSUKA JA
RUAYJAA/CTF 72
RUEHNH/AMCONSUL NAHA 3827
RUEHFK/AMCONSUL FUKUOKA 1470
RUEHOK/AMCONSUL OSAKA KOBE 5261
RUEHNAG/AMCONSUL NAGOYA 9439
RUEHKSO/AMCONSUL SAPPORO 2036
RUEHBJ/AMEMBASSY BEIJING 6866
RUEHUL/AMEMBASSY SEOUL 2867
RUCNDT/USMISSION USUN NEW YORK 2961
UNCLAS SECTION 01 OF 10 TOKYO 003427
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: JAPANESE MORNING PRESS HIGHLIGHTS 12/17/08
Index:
1) Top headlines
2) Editorials
3) Prime Minister's daily schedule (Nikkei)
Defense and security affairs:
4) Senior State Department official expresses hope that Japan will
contribute to Afghan reconstruction by sending civilians to assist
(Mainichi)
5) MSDF Aegis ship approved for being mounted with MD intercept
equipment, despite recent test failure (Nikkei)
6) Under unofficial ROE, ASDF assigned to Iraq were allowed to
return fire if C-130 had emergency landing and was in danger (Tokyo
Shimbun)
7) Government view that use of weapons by SDF against pirates in
waters off Somalia would be constitutional (Asahi)
8) ESTA: Despite visa waiver, Japanese traveling to U.S. would be
rejected unless prior approval obtained by Internet (Sankei)
Economy:
9) Mid-term tax program draft will contain mention of consumption
tax hike in 2011 as Prime Minister Aso wanted (Yomiuri)
10) New Komeito objects to inclusion of consumption tax hike mention
in tax program (Mainichi)
Political agenda:
11) Last days of the current Diet session finds atmosphere tense
between ruling and opposition camps (Tokyo Shimbun)
12) Democratic Party of Japan decides to put off planned filing of
censure motion against the prime minister (Tokyo Shimbun)
13) Cabinet minister Amari in interview sees possibility of early
cabinet shuffle (Tokyo Shimbun)
14) New Komeito unhappy with surprising remark by LDP election chief
Koga seen as rejecting election cooperation between the two parties
(Mainichi)
Articles:
1) TOP HEADLINES
Asahi & Mainichi:
Keidanren reluctant to hike wages, weakens job-security policy
Yomiuri & Sankei
Government's mid-term program specifies consumption tax hike in
fiscal 2011
Nikkei:
Government to curb social security spending by 20 billion yen in
real terms as result of reduced amount covered by reserves
Tokyo Shimbun:
Rules of engagement for ASDF operations in Iraq specify weapons-use
procedures on assumption of emergency landing
2) EDITORIALS
Asahi:
(1) Enact employment bills in current Diet session
(2) Countries must make efforts to move WTO negotiations forward
TOKYO 00003427 002 OF 010
Mainichi:
(1) Tax reform: Concealing tax increases an act deception
(2) Introduction of compensation system for obstetric patients a
step forward but contains many problems
Yomiuri:
(1) Deepen debate on making 18 the age of majority
(2) Policy on spring wage offensive: Labor and management should try
to overcome difficult situation
Nikkei:
(1) Labor and management should step up efforts to improve labor
market
(2) Discuss safety net in the event 18 is made age of majority
Sankei:
(1) Spring wage offensive: Labor and management must cooperate for
job security
(2) Take steps to upgrade moral education
Tokyo Shimbun:
(1) Keidanren's reluctant stance about hiking wages unhelpful
(2) New Thai government urged to settle conflict among people
3) Prime Minister's Official Residence (Kantei)
Prime Minister's schedule, December 16
NIKKEI (Page 2) (Full)
December 17, 2008
09:01
Attended a cabinet meeting. METI Minister Nikai stayed on.
10:57
Met at the Kantei LDP Policy Research Council Chairman Hori, his
deputy Sonoda, road-related revenues general spending project team
chair Tanigaki, and MLIT Minister Kaneko.
11:56
Had a lunch with LDP first-term lawmakers in the presence of Deputy
Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsumoto. Chief Cabinet Secretary Kawamura
joined in.
13:11
Met High Energy Acceleration Research Organization Professor
Emeritus Makoto Kobayashi in the presence of MEXT Minister Shionoya.
Afterward met Japan Association of National Universities Chairman
Komiyama and Federation of Japanese Private Colleges and
Universities Associations Chair man Anzai.
13:58
Met Economic and Fiscal Policy Minister Yosano and Assistant Chief
Cabinet Secretary Fukuda.
15:01
Met Ocean Policy Research Foundation President Akiyama, followed by
Cabinet Councilor Toyoda, in the presence of Vice-Foreign Minister
Yabunaka, Vice METI Minister Mochizuki, in the presence of Deputy
Vice-Minister Ishige.
TOKYO 00003427 003 OF 010
16:03
Met Reform Club Representative Watanabe and others, followed by
Moroccan Ambassador to Japan Lecheheb in the presence of MHLW
Minister Masuzoe. Afterward, met Kawamura.
17:01
Attended a Council on Economic and Fiscal Policy meeting.
17:34
Met Kawamura, followed by Finance Minister Nakagawa, Vice Finance
Minister Sugimoto and Budget Bureau Director General Tango.
18:33
Met Defense Parliamentary Secretary Takeda and others.
19:08
Met senior vice ministers in the presence of Kawamura, Matsumoto and
Konoike.
20:59
Met Matsumoto at an Imperial Hotel bar.
23:33
Returned to his private residence in Kamiyamacho.
4) Senior U.S. official expresses hope for Japan's civilian
contributions to Afghanistan
MAINICHI (Page 2) (Abridged slightly)
December 17, 2008
Masaya Oikawa, Washington
Department of State Japan Desk Director Daniel Russel held a press
conference at the Foreign Correspondents' Club in Washington on Dec.
ΒΆ15. Touching on Japan's contributions to Afghanistan, he expressed
hope for the dispatch of civilians in such areas as police,
construction, education, and medical services. Given the incoming
Obama administration's clear indication that it will put high
priority on Afghanistan, there is a possibility that further
contributions from Japan will become a focal point.
Regarding Japan's future contributions, Director Russel said: "The
United States and Japan are continuously discussing the matter. What
is necessary depends on Afghanistan's needs rather than what is
requested by the United States." He also indicated that the dispatch
of civilians in a wide range of fields must be discussed, citing
police officers, construction workers, teachers and nurses as
specialists needed in Afghanistan.
5) MSDF authorizes Aegis intercept system
NIKKEI (Page 2) (Full)
December 17, 2008
The Maritime Self-Defense Force has now authorized an intercept
system with the Standard Missile 3 (SM-3) mounted on its
Aegis-equipped destroyer Chokai, MSDF Chief of Staff Keiji Akahoshi
told a press conference yesterday. In November, the MSDF failed in
an intercept test off Hawaii. "There was no problem with the ship's
system," Akahoshi said.
TOKYO 00003427 004 OF 010
6) ASDF anticipated returning fire after emergency landing
TOKYO SHIMBUN (Top play) (Full)
December 17, 2008
The Air Self-Defense Force, which conducted airlift activities in
Iraq under a law for special measures to assist with Iraq's
reconstruction, had set weapons use guidelines in its rules of
engagement (ROE), sources revealed yesterday. In other words, the
ASDF had anticipated case where its cargo planes, which are supposed
to have flown in 'noncombat areas,' were shot down and could no
longer fly. This shows a discrepancy between the law and the actual
activities.
The ROE were laid down in November 2003 before the Self-Defense
Forces' Iraq dispatch. It stipulated what to do after a C-130
transport plane's emergency landing, anticipating a case where the
plane is surrounded or plundered.
In the case of an emergency landing, ASDF crew members are not
allowed to use weapons if they are only surrounded. The ROE allows
them to use weapons if and when they or their aircraft is endangered
and they have no choice but to break through the encirclement. In
the case of pillage after an emergency landing, the ROE allows ASDF
members to use weapons when they feel endangered even if the enemy
has no weapons.
The ROE also anticipate a case where ASDF members find it impossible
to defend their aircraft even by returning fire. In this case, the
ROE stipulate that the ASDF crew should give up their cargo plane
and evacuate.
The Iraq Special Measures Law stipulates SDF activities in
"noncombat areas." Regarding airlift activities in Iraq, the
government has explained that air routes and airports are noncombat
areas. However, the ROE go so far as to anticipate even a case where
an ASDF C-130 transport is downed and comes under attack after its
emergency landing.
In the ASDF's actual airlift activities in Iraq, the C-130's alarm
was often activated against potential attacks from shoulder-launched
missiles over Baghdad.
Former ASDF Chief of Staff Tadashi Yoshida told the Tokyo Shimbun
after his retirement: "If you can show the noncombat area on a map,
that's all right. But we don't know which part is a noncombat area
and which part is not. That doesn't go with the world of pilots."
With this, Yoshida showed a gap with the government's account.
7) Weapons use against pirates constitutional: gov't
ASAHI (Page 4) (Full)
December 17, 2008
The government, now studying measures (to protect Japanese tankers
and other commercial ships) against pirates that are rampant in
waters off the coast of Somalia, has released a view allowing the
Self-Defense Forces to use weapons in order to crack down on pirates
there. The government says the SDF's use of weapons for that purpose
does not fall under the constitutional prohibition of Japan from
using armed force overseas. However, the pirates in the offing of
Somalia are armed with rockets and other weapons. Moreover, the
TOKYO 00003427 005 OF 010
pirates are organized. The SDF's use of weapons against armed
pirates will therefore likely result in a full-fledged battle with
them. There are many challenges in store, such as what to do about
guidelines for weapons use or the rules of engagement (ROE).
In a meeting yesterday of the House of Representatives Security
Affairs Committee, former Defense Agency Director General Gen
Nakatani, a House of Representatives member of the ruling Liberal
Democratic Party, interpellated the government about constitutional
problems. Tsuneyuki Yamamoto, director general of the Cabinet
Legislation Bureau First Department, replied: "In case an order has
been issued for maritime security operations, SDF personnel's use of
weapons within the bounds of the Policemen's Duty Performance Law
does not conflict with Article 9 of the Constitution." The
government's interpretation is that launching an attack against "a
state or a state-like organization" falls under the constitutionally
prohibited use of armed force but the SDF's use of weapons against a
private group of pirates cannot be called unconstitutional. In case
the defense minister issued an order for maritime security
operations, SDF personnel-as well as police officers-are allowed to
use weapons if and when those believed to be vicious criminals
resist.
However, the current maritime security operations are to be
conducted in order to protect the lives and assets of Japanese
nationals. The Defense Ministry deems it difficult to conduct
maritime security operations against pirates that attack foreign
vessels. The government and a nonpartisan group of lawmakers are
therefore looking into the option of creating a special measures law
for antipiracy activities off Somalia or a permanent law to crack
down on piracy.
8) New ESTA system requires visa-waiver visitors to obtain online
pre-approvals starting next month
SANKEI (Page 3) (Excerpts)
December 17, 2008
The U.S. government will require Visa Waiver Program visitors coming
to the U.S. to register online before entering the U.S. Those
without the pre-approval document are likely to be refused entry
into the country. But many Japanese tourists seem to be still
unfamiliar with the introduction of the new program, although only
less than one month is left before it will be launched. The
Scheduled Airlines Association of Japan, composed of domestic
airlines, is trying to spread the information.
The U.S. will introduce the Electronic System for Travel
Authorization (ESTA) as part of measures to prevent terrorists from
entering the nation. The Visa Waiver Program has allowed Japanese
visitors to go to the U.S. for tourism or business purposes for up
to 90 days without a visa. But the new system will require such
visitors to get pre-approval through online procedures.
Domestic airlines intend not to let passengers with no pre-approval
document board a plane once the new program is launched. This is in
order to avoid any trouble after the passengers arrive in the U.S.
In principle, visitors should comply with online procedures on their
own. They are required to enter such details as their name, passport
number, and whether or not they have a criminal record. The
application should be submitted at least 72 hours before departure.
TOKYO 00003427 006 OF 010
9) Sales tax hike in fiscal 2011 stipulated in mid-term government
program
YOMIURI (Top Play) (Excerpts)
December 17, 2008
The government on December 16 presented to the Council on Economic
and Fiscal Policy, chaired by Prime Minister Aso, a mid-term program
for drastic reform of the tax code, which stipulates its policy of
raising the consumption tax in fiscal 2011. The panel unanimously
approved the proposal. The program mentions that drastic reform of
the tax code, including the consumption tax, will be implemented in
stages between fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2015 for the establishment of
a sustainable fiscal structure. The government will aim at having
the program adopted at a cabinet meeting by the 24th, when a
government plan for the fiscal 2009 budget is slated to be approved.
However, coordination of views with the ruling parties, which are
strongly opposing the idea of mentioning the timetable for raising
the tax rate, is bound to encounter complications.
The government plan stresses its intention to use increased tax
revenues as stable funding resources for social security spending.
It also stipulates the timetable for the proposed hike, with
economic recovery as the premise. The program also notes that
legislative measures needed to hike the consumption tax will be
taken in 2010.
Gist of mid-term government program
? Implement in stages drastic reform of the tax code, including the
consumption tax, between fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2015.
? Make a comprehensive approach, including consideration into
multiple tax rates.
? Take legislative measures in 2010
? Use increased revenues for social security benefits and measures
for the declining birthrate
? Revise the structure of the income tax system from the perspective
of correcting the social disparities
? Lower the corporate tax in order to strengthen companies'
international competitiveness
? Secure stable funding sources in fiscal 2011 to finance a hike in
the state contribution to the basic pension to 50 PERCENT and make
it a permanent measure.
10) New Komeito certain to object to government's medium-term
program; LDP likely to be caught between government and New Komeito;
Ruling bloc's project team to meet today; Prime minister might lose
his grip on ruling parties
NIKKEI (Page 2) (Abridged slightly)
December 17, 2008
The government has presented a medium-term fundamental tax reform
program with a consumption tax hike in fiscal 2011 in mind.
Following this development, the ruling bloc will hold the first
meeting today of its project team (PT) to study the medium-term
program. The program is certain to draw fire from the New Komeito,
which is concerned about the program's possible negative impact on
the next Lower House election. The Liberal Democratic Party will
likely be torn between the government and the New Komeito.
Difficulties in coordinating views could further reduce Prime
TOKYO 00003427 007 OF 010
Minister Taro Aso's grip on power.
Doubts about Yosano
LDP Policy Research Council Chairman Kosuke Hori around noon
yesterday asked former Finance Minister Fukushiro Nukaga to chair
the PT. Nukaga agreed to assume the post on the condition he be
given full initiative in running the PT, saying, "Someone has to do
it."
The PT consists of about eight persons, including tax and social
security policy officers of the LDP and New Komeito. The PT
chairman's post has been declined by a number of senior LDP Tax
Commission members. They apparently did not want to have "pull the
chestnut out of the fire" in the expected clash between the
government and the New Komeito.
The ruling parties have unveiled a tax reform outline for fiscal
2009 that did not specify the timing to raise the consumption tax
rate. But the prime minister still publicly declared that the
government would hike the sales tax in fiscal 2011. Economic and
Fiscal Policy Minister Kaoru Yosano, who has reportedly given Aso a
positive push, telephoned PT members after yesterday's Council on
Economic and Fiscal Policy meeting to tell them, "Although the
contents is the same as the ruling bloc's outline, new figures have
been added." In a press conference as well, Yosano explained, "There
is nothing that runs counter to the spirit of the outline."
But the path to fundamental tax reform mentioned in the government's
plan is the same expression as that presented by the LDP in a ruling
bloc tax reform council meeting that failed to obtain the New
Komeito's endorsement. "Is there any guarantee that the economy will
pick up in fiscal 2011?" a senior New Komeito member said. In the
party, there are doubts about Yosano, with one saying: "Mr. Yosano
plans to cause a crack to open between the LDP and New Komeito over
the medium-term program that could lead to a grand alliance between
the LDP and the (opposition) Democratic Party of Japan."
Party-head talks
Criticism is simmering in the LDP, with former Secretary General
Hidenao Nakagawa saying: "It is irresponsible to speak only of a tax
hike without presenting what should be done, such as turning around
the economy and cutting salaries of civil servants." At the same
time, there is a view in the party that if the prime minister's
leadership suffers another setback, it would take a devastating toll
on the party in next Lower House election.
New Komeito Chief Representative Akihiro Ota said in a press
conference yesterday: "Given the prime minister's statement, it is
important for the ruling parties to discuss the matter thoroughly to
arrive at a smooth conclusion." One senior LDP member noted: "There
is no other option but to settle the matter in the end through
party-head talks."
11) Administrative Reform Minister Amari: Cabinet shuffle a possible
choice to boost Aso administration's popularity
TOKYO SHIMBUN (Page 2) (Full)
December 17, 2008
In an interview to the Tokyo Shimbun, Minister of State for
TOKYO 00003427 008 OF 010
Administrative Reform Akira Amari stated: A shuffle of the cabinet
of Prime Minister Aso and the lineup of the Liberal Democratic Party
executives "is one of the choices to boost the Aso administration's
popularity. I think there should be a dream team that would tackle
the difficult situation of a century by appointing bigwigs who are
policy experts to a new cabinet."
Amari talked about the current cabinet lineup: "The cabinet was
formed based on the premise of a dissolution of the House of
Representatives. It is not a full-scale cabinet for making
policies."
However, he admitted that that Prime Minister Aso probably had no
intention to shuffle his cabinet and the LDP leadership.
12) DPJ forgoes filing censure motion against Prime Minister Aso
TOKYO SHIMBUN (Page 2) (Full)
December 17, 2008
The Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ), the largest opposition party,
decided yesterday to forgo submission of a censure motion against
Prime Minister Taro Aso to the current extraordinary session of the
Diet. The decision was revealed by a senior DPJ Upper House member.
The DPJ has judged that rather than to boycott deliberations on the
budget bill, it would be wiser for it to pursue contradictions in
the fiscal 2008 second supplementary budget during the next regular
Diet session, which is scheduled to be convened on Jan. 5. This
decision takes into consideration the low support ratings of the Aso
cabinet in the polls.
13) Final stage of current Diet session in tense situation;
Opposition camp intends to steamroll vote on employment bills,
ruling coalition desperate to cap criticism for inability to devise
new measures
TOKYO SHIMBUN (Page 2) (Full)
December 17, 2008
The ruling coalition is reacting strongly against the main
opposition Democratic Party of Japan's (DPJ) stance of not
hesitating to steamroll a vote on Dec. 18 in the House of
Councillors Committee on Health, Labor and Welfare on a set of four
employment measures bills. The DPJ, the Social Democratic Party
(SDP) and People's New Party (PNP) jointly submitted the bills to
the Upper House. With the closing day of the ongoing Diet session
approaching, maneuvering between the ruling and opposition camps is
now intensifying.
Referring in an executive meeting yesterday to the bills, DPJ Diet
Affairs Committee Chairman Kenji Yamaoka said: "We will not hesitate
to take a forced vote for the sake of the people."
The DPJ is expected to hold on Dec. 18 a rally together with the SDP
and PNP calling for an early passage of the bills. The party also
plans to hold a meeting of the leaders of the three parties in order
to play up their solidarity.
At a press meeting yesterday, Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Upper
House Diet Affairs Committee Chairman Seiji Suzuki expressed his
anger at the opposition's such moves, arguing: "I think the Upper
TOKYO 00003427 009 OF 010
House may change from the chamber of wisdom to the seat of darkness.
I feel the Upper House is in danger."
The opposition camp submitted the bills to the Upper House on Dec.
15, only ten days before the end of the ongoing Diet session and
then referred them to the committee just two hours after that.
The ruling bloc is angry because the opposition forced the taking of
a vote on the measures in the committee on Dec. 18 without giving
any explanations of them (according to Suzuki).
However, the ruling bloc gave the opposition a chance to criticize
the government for being unable to devise any appropriate measures
to cope with the situation, even putting off submitting a second
supplementary budget for fiscal 2008.
As such, LDP decided yesterday in a liaison meeting to bolster a
public relations campaign on the government's emergency employment
measures, with Secretary General Hiroyuki Hosoda saying: "We will
carry out a public relations activity to explain the public the
contents of the emergency package." The LDP is now desperately
trying to cap the criticism that the government is unable to come up
with any appropriate measures.
14) New Komeito shows displeasure with Koga statement: Could become
yet another source of friction
MAINICHI (Page 5) (Excerpts)
December 17, 2008
Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Election Committee Chairman Makoto
Koga's statement referring to a possible revision of the party's
election cooperation with New Komeito on December 16 has created a
stir in the ruling camp. Many members of the New Komeito and Soka
Gakkai, the party's power base, expressed displeasure. One senior
member even telephoned Koga to ask what he meant. Secretary General
Hiroyuki Hosoda hurriedly tried to put the uproar to rest, saying,
"He just stated his own view." However, Koga's statement could
become yet another source of friction between the LDP and the New
Komeito.
Koga on December 15 suggested that the LDP might rethink its current
election cooperation setup with the New Komeito, under which LDP
candidates cooperate with New Komeito in proportional representation
in return for their receiving support from New Komeito in
single-seat constituencies. Referring to his statement, Koga on the
16th told reporters: "The LDP must do its best in the proportional
representation system as well. It is important both for the LDP and
the New Komeito to garner more votes."
Behind Koga's statement is a sense of alarm at the present state the
LDP is facing, including a sharp decline in public approval ratings
for the Aso cabinet. One senior party official said, "In recent
national elections, 20 PERCENT -30 PERCENT of LDP supporters did
not vote for candidates endorsed by the LDP." Few believe that the
Koga statement will accelerate moves to rethink cooperation with the
New Komeito. However, he certainly voiced the true feelings of many
LDP members -- they want cooperation from the New Komeito, but there
is no room for them to hand over votes in proportional
representation.
Prime Minister Taro Aso at a meeting with senior vice ministers from
TOKYO 00003427 010 OF 010
each government agency on the evening of the 16th said, "I heard
that Mr. Koga said that the LDP can win the election if it cuts ties
with the New Komeito." Two senior vice ministers of the New Komeito
were present at the meeting, but they kept silent.
Many New Komeito members were perplexed at the Koga statement with
one noting, "Soka Gakkai members, who have thus far supported LDP
candidates because they had no choice but to do so, may say that
they will not support the LDP any more." A senior Soka Gakkai member
expressed displeasure: "An appropriate person in the LDP must
properly reject the Koga statement."
SCHIEFFER