2nd Japan-US meeting for crisis management in Okinawa (Conclusion)

The following press release was issued on December 5 following the second Japan-U.S. meeting for crisis management in Okinawa:

Last November, Japan and US agencies in Okinawa adopted "Conclusion and recommendation" that attached importance to cooperation, mutual notification, Joint meeting, joint drill at the 1st Japan-US meeting for crisis management in Okinawa.

Based on the "Conclusion and recommendation," Japan and US agencies has concluded joint meetings and a joint drill and both sides have gained more understanding of each agency's role, activity, and contract mechanism.

By paying serious attention to this progress, Japan and US agencies in Okinawa confirm the effectiveness of the "Conclusion and recommendation," as well as three matters listed below.

1. Cooperation between Japan and US
   

   In order to minimize the damage to the local area and to regain quietness of the local community, we confirmed that relevant agencies of Japan and US will keep close communication and cooperation in the case of an off-base US military accident in accordance with "Guidelines Regarding OFF-Base US Military Aircraft Accident in Japan."

2. Promotion of mutual understanding
   

   We confirmed that relevant agencies of Japan and US will promote mutual understanding at non-accidental times in order to ensure prompt and appropriate responses with the mutual cooperation between the two sides in the case of a military related accident.

3. Japan-US Joint drill
   

   We confirmed that it is very effective to have a joint drill for the purpose of confirming each side's accident response procedures, including mutual notification system, and sharing common understanding and recognition.