Obama vows to keep close relations with Japan
16:32, 7 August 2009
WASHINGTON. August 7. KAZINFORM. U.S. President Barack Obama reiterated here on Thursday that his administration will maintain strong relations with Japan, one of American allies in Asia; Kazinform refers to Xinhua.
"The partnership between the United States and Japan is one of tremendous importance. It's one of the cornerstones of our both security and economic well-being," Obama told reporters ahead of the Senate confirmation of U.S. ambassador to Japan John Roos.
Japan has been a staunch ally of the United State for decades in international affairs, including the U.S.-sponsored Afghanistan war and Iraq war. Under a bilateral security alliance, about 50,000 U.S. troops are stationed in Japan; Kazinform cites Xinhua. See www.xinhuanet.com for full version.