Regarding the story "Trump-Abe ties to shape stay in Tokyo: Hagerty" in the Sept. 30 edition, U.S. Ambassador William Hagerty's remarks were grossly improper. They represent, during the run-up to an election, an implicit message to Japanese voters to support Shinzo Abe and the LDP if they desire good relations with the U.S.
One awaits a press release from the U.S. Embassy apologizing for Hagerty's reckless breach of diplomatic norms. And one must note that this episode illustrates the disadvantages of the strange — and corrupt — American practice of entrusting ambassadorships to wealthy individuals whose only qualifications are having raised money for successful presidential campaigns, rather than to professional diplomats.
The opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are the writer's own and do not necessarily reflect the policies of The Japan Times.