WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 (UPI) — Government officials from the United States and Japan have agreed to a five-year host-nation plan to support U.S. armed forces stationed in Japan.
Under the agreement, Japan will spend about $1.6 billion per year to support operational readiness of U.S. troops in the country, where armed forces from both countries regularly conduct military exercises together.
“We both derive significant strategic benefit out of it,” Pentagon spokesman Navy Capt. Jeff Davis said. “The alliance has served us well for decades, and we’re glad it’s going to continue to be positioned going forward for success.”
Davis added the cost-sharing agreement will support further training programs, utilities, improving facilities in operation, and help sustain the U.S. military presence in an effort to maintain the balance of power in the region.
The agreement takes effect on April 1, 2016.
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