H. Res. 508 

In the House of Representatives, U. S., 

September 5, 2007. 

Whereas the United States-Japan alliance is the cornerstone 

of United States security interests in Asia and the Pacific 

and is fundamental to regional stability and prosperity; 

Whereas the United States-Japan alliance continues to be 

based on shared vital interests and values in the Asia-Pacific region, despite the changes in the post-cold war strategic landscape, including the preservation and promotion 

of political and economic freedoms, support for human 

rights and democratic institutions, and securing of prosperity for the people of both countries and the international community; 

Whereas on April 27, 2007, during Prime Minister Abe’s visit 

to Washington, President Bush and the Prime Minister 

reconfirmed their commitment to these common strategic 

objectives; 

Whereas Japan provides military bases and generous financial and material support to United States forward-deployed forces, which are essential for maintaining stability in the region; 

Whereas under the United States-Japan Treaty of Mutual 

Cooperation and Security, Japan hosts a carrier battle 
2 

•HRES 508 EH 

group, the III Marine Expeditionary Force, and the 5th 

Air Force; 

Whereas the United States currently maintains approximately 

50,000 troops in Japan, about half of whom are stationed in Okinawa; 

Whereas over the past decade the alliance has been strengthened through revised Defense Guidelines (which expand 

Japan’s noncombat role in a regional contingency) and 

the continued renewal of Japan’s Host Nation Support of 

United States forces stationed in Japan; 

Whereas in 2005, the two allies agreed on a redefinition of 

roles, missions, and capabilities of alliance forces, which 

further deepens interoperability and coordination between 

the Japanese Self Defense Forces (SDF) and United 

States Armed Forces; 

Whereas the agreement also provided for reducing the number of troops stationed in Okinawa and broadening our 

cooperation in the area of ballistic missile defense 

(BMD); 

Whereas in May 2007, the United States and Japan confirmed that, as both countries develop and deploy capabilities, every effort must be made to ensure tactical, 

operational, and strategic coordination, including ballistic 

missile threats against alliance interests; 

Whereas after the tragic events of September 11, 2001, 

Japan has participated significantly in international efforts to combat terrorism by providing major logistical 

support for United States and coalition forces in the Indian Ocean in support of Operation Enduring Freedom; 

and 
3 

•HRES 508 EH 

Whereas Japan has also provided troops, aircraft, and 

logistical support for Operation Iraqi Freedom, a commitment which the Japanese Government recently renewed: 

Now, therefore, be it 

Resolved, That the House of Representatives— 

(1) recognizes that Japan is one of the most reliable 

security partners of the United States; 

(2) commends the Government of Japan for its role 

in enhancing stability in the Asia-Pacific Region; and 

(3) expresses appreciation to the Government of 

Japan for its contributions to international efforts to 

combat terrorism. 

Attest: 

Clerk.