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Core GSDF departs for Iraq as controversy still rages in Diet

CHITOSE, Hokkaido (Kyodo) - The first group of the main Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) departed here Feb. 3 for Iraq.

The 90-member contingent arrived in Kuwait on Feb. 4 on a government jet from the Chitose Base of the Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF). Its destination was the southern Iraqi city of Samawah, which will serve as the base for the 550-strong GSDF mission.

About 1,600 fellow and former GSDF troops gathered to see off the team, and 300 family members attended a send-off ceremony.

The deployment remains controversial. Diet debate was stalled after opposition parties boycotted a committee session Jan. 31 to protest the governing coalition's push for Diet approval of the deployment.

It is the first time since World War II that Japan has dispatched troops to a country where combat is taking place, although the SDF troops will be engaged in a noncombat mission.

The GSDF is expected to begin providing water and medical aid and helping repair public facilities in Samawah and nearby areas in April.

There is already a 30-member advance team in Iraq engaged in preparatory work, and the remaining troops will be sent in several batches later this month.

Shukan ST: Feb. 13, 2004

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National News Core GSDF departs for Iraq as controversy still rages in Diet CHITOSE, Hokkaido (Kyodo) - The first group of the main Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) departed here Feb. 3 for Iraq. The 90-member contingent arrived in Kuwait on Feb. 4 on a government jet from the Chitose Base of the Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF). Its destination was the southern Iraqi city of Samawah, which will serve as the base for the 550-strong GSDF mission. About 1,600 fellow and former GSDF troops gathered to see off the team, and 300 family members attended a send-off ceremony. The deployment remains controversial. Diet debate was stalled after opposition parties boycotted a committee session Jan. 31 to protest the governing coalition's push for Diet approval of the deployment. It is the first time since World War II that Japan has dispatched troops to a country where combat is taking place, although the SDF troops will be engaged in a noncombat mission. The GSDF is expected to begin providing water and medical aid and helping repair public facilities in Samawah and nearby areas in April. There is already a 30-member advance team in Iraq engaged in preparatory work, and the remaining troops will be sent in several batches later this month. Shukan ST: Feb. 13, 2004 (C) All rights reserved