SAMAWAH, Iraq -- An advance Ground Self-Defense Force team vowed to cement ties with the Iraqi people after arriving at a Dutch base near here Monday evening.

The local populace meanwhile turned out to welcome them.

"We hope that our activities will lead to enhanced relations between the Iraqis and Japan," said Col. Masahisa Sato, who heads the team of about 30 GSDF members, after the team arrived at Camp Smitty, about 7 km south of central Samawah.