Japanese returning to Irian Jaya

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: About 20.000 Japanese from the Yamagata Province are expected to visit the province next year to mark the 50th anniversary since the fierce battle with the Allies during World War II.

A peace monument was erected here on Thursday to honor Japanese soldiers who died during the war. Yamagata Governor Kazuo Takahashi, Irian Jaya Governor Jacob Patippi and 70 Japanese war veterans were present at the ceremony.

The city authorities, in anticipation of the influx of Japanese next year, plans to expand the Jayapura airport's runway so that it can take Fokker 28 aircraft. (arf)