WASHINGTON (Kyodo) Japan should find an alternative way to help stabilize Afghanistan if the incoming administration ends the Maritime Self-Defense Force's Indian Ocean refueling mission in support of U.S.-led antiterrorism operations in and around the war-torn country, renowned U.S. scholar Joseph Nye said.
"The Indian Ocean refueling, I think, it's a symbolic Japanese support. . . . Finding a substitute for refueling is important if they decide to stop refueling," he said in a recent interview, calling for a more "civilian-based contribution."
"Japan has talked about a more equal alliance. That includes the ability of Japan to help the United States. So that's part of equality," he said. "I think Americans are saying, 'If not refueling, then what?' "