Japan, ASEAN hold antiterror conference

Japan, ASEAN hold antiterror conference

Agencies, Tokyo

Japan and ASEAN nations began a two-day meeting here on Wednesday to discuss joint measures against terrorism in the region, a government official said.

Participants in the annual consultation are expected to discuss threats from international terrorism networks, cooperation to fight terrorism in the region and other issues, according to the foreign ministry.

The closed-door meeting is attended by government officials from Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) -- which groups Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar (Burma), the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi told editors of Asian newspapers on Tuesday that the fight against terrorism is becoming a serious issue, the English-language Daily Yomiuri said.

"In addressing the issue, (Japan's) cooperation with ASEAN countries is essential," the premier was quoted as saying.

Concerns about a possible terror attack in Japan have intensified since threats purportedly made by al-Qaeda last month. Tokyo appears to be taking the threats seriously, but hasn't said whether it verified that an al-Qaeda operative made them.

Japan is to host a special ASEAN summit meeting on Dec. 11 to Dec. 12 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the two partners' ties.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yasuo Fukuda said last month Japan intended to join a 1976 treaty of friendship and cooperation with Southeast Asian nations, reversing its earlier reluctance.

The regional pact, Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, commits signatory states to respect the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries.

ASEAN leaders urged Japan to become the fourth non-ASEAN country to sign on at a summit in October, following China, India and Papua New Guinea. Japanese officials say they consider joining the treaty a symbolic gesture.

Japan will also pursue talks on possible free trade deals with several countries.