The United States is "satisfied" with Japan's response in supporting U.S. antiterrorism efforts in the wake of the deadly terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon last month, the U.S. ambassador to Japan said Friday.

"As of now, America is very satisfied with Japan's response," Howard Baker told a luncheon at the Japan National Press Club. "We're very pleased with actions you're taking and commitments that you're making."

Baker, who accompanied Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi during the latter's visit to Washington last month, said Koizumi and U.S. President George W. Bush "understand each other" about their commitment to fight terrorism. Before Koizumi's visit, Japan announced a seven-point package of support measures, including the dispatch of Self-Defense Forces for noncombatant assistance and provision of humanitarian and economic aid. The Cabinet on Friday approved draft bills for allowing the SDF to provide rear-area support for U.S. military action.

Baker said Washington welcomes these measures, and that the question of whether Japan should pursue a greater military role by changing its war-renouncing Constitution is entirely Japan's decision. "It is not my purpose . . . to tell you how you support our friendship and alliance," he said. "That is your judgment to make, and we have a high confidence that you will make a right decision."

Baker also said Japan's diplomatic efforts, such as sharing information about Iran's position, would be welcomed.

U.S.-Iran ties have been troubled since the 1979 seizure of U.S. embassy in Tehran, and Japan has been warming to the Iranian government the past few years.

Former Foreign Minister Masahiko Komura was in Tehran on Friday as special envoy to discuss terrorism.

Suggestions from Japan about how to extend humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan citizens would also be important, the ambassador said. "You're much closer to this region and you perhaps have better contact there . . . we would welcome your suggestions and advice (on) how you alleviate sufferings that will inevitably occur."

Refugee aid urged

Japan and Germany on Friday agreed on the importance of providing refugee aid to Pakistan since a large number of Afghans are fleeing to the country in anticipation of a U.S. military strike in Afghanistan.

During a teleconference, Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi and German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder also agreed to cooperate economically and financially to prevent a global economic meltdown in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in the United States, Japanese government officials said.

"We hope to cooperate with Japan and keep a close watch on the global economy," Schroeder was quoted as saying.