Gov. Denny Tamaki speaking with the press at the Okinawa Prefectural Government
Office on Jan 21, following the inauguration of U.S. President Joe Biden.
January 22, 2021 Ryukyu Shimpo
On January 21, following the inauguration of Joe Biden as the United States president, Governor Denny Tamaki spoke to the press at the Okinawa Prefectural Government Office. The governor said, “To secure a hope-filled future for Okinawa, I will convey [to the Biden administration] our current situation under the Japan-U.S. security arrangement and request [their] cooperation.”
The new administration is expected to remain on course with the new base construction in Henoko, Nago City, a byproduct of relocating Futenma Air Station. Governor Tamaki commented, “[Remaining the course] seems to have been the natural course of action. However, I hope that by informing on the real conditions in Okinawa while looking to the future, we will be able to cultivate an environment to discuss the Henoko base construction [with the Biden administration].”
Governor Tamaki noted the opportunities the new administration brings, stating, “I would be grateful if we can establish channels with various people [within the administration]. Since the Biden administration has a strong emphasis on diversity and women, I would be happy to see new lines of communication open up.”
(English translation by T&CT and Monica Shingaki)
