Pentagon, State Department officials confer with Okinawa's governor

Leaders with the State Department and Secretary of Defense met with Okinawa Gov. Takeshi Onaga via teleconference from Washington, D.C., last week to discuss the ongoing U.S.-Japan alliance.
During the meeting, State Department Office of Japanese Affairs Director Joe Young and Acting Director for Japan in the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Paul Vosti thanked Onaga for his strong commitment and support for U.S. military personnel.
“The United States’ troop presence in Okinawa remains fundamental to fulfilling our treaty commitment to Japan’s defense, and our personnel endeavor always to be responsible members of their local communities,” the State Department said.
While on the phone, both directors addressed the advancement of the Futenma Replacement Faciliy at Camp Schwab (FRF).
“The U.S. officials reiterated that the FRF is the only solution that addresses operational, political, financial, and strategic concerns and avoids the continued use of Marine Corps Air Station Futenma,” the State Department said.
In addition, the directors spoke with Onaga regarding the withdrawal of some troops to the U.S. While the Defense Department cautioned it must leave a “military footprint” in Okinawa, the directors made clear they plan to transfer nearly 10,000 service members to other locations.