[Congressional Bills 110th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 508 Engrossed in House (EH)]


                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 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
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.