Wednesday, December 24, 2008

The Prime Minister Attends the Event for the Return of the Air Transportation Unit and Others Dispatched for Reconstruction Assistance in Iraq

Prime Minister Taro Aso attended the Event for the Return of the Air Transportation Unit and Others Dispatched for Reconstruction Assistance in Iraq, held at the Komaki Airbase of the Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF) in Komaki City, Aichi Prefecture.

In response to the return of the dispatched unit of the ASDF that completed its assistance activities in the Republic of Iraq, a handover ceremony of the unit flag took place. During the Event, a report of return was made, and the Prime Minister's Special Award was conferred by Prime Minister Aso.

In his address, Prime Minister Aso said, "I am very pleased to see the safe return of all the members of the Air Transportation Unit Dispatched for Reconstruction Assistance in Iraq as well as those of the Airlift Planning Division, after duly completing their respective missions. Japan's contribution to the reconstruction and rebuilding of Iraq has received appreciation by the people of Iraq, the United Nations, and the related countries of the Multi-National Force-Iraq (MNF-I). I consider such appreciation comes as the result of you devoting yourself to duties with a strong sense of mission. I am proud of each one of you."