NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued this statement following today's announcement regarding the agreement to move the Marine base on Okinawa.
"Today's announcement is a significant step forward that will ensure that the US-Japan alliance has the defense strategy needed to continue to provide peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region far into the twenty-first century. In August, this was a subject I raised directly with Prime Minister Abe while in Tokyo. The United States will adjust its military presence in Okinawa to lessen the burden faced by the local residents while guaranteeing we meet our Alliance commitments. Getting our footprint right on Okinawa and Guam is an important part of our broader effort to renew the alliance to face new challenges as we work with our regional allies, partners and friends for shared peace, security and prosperity for the Asia-Pacific region."
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