[Candor7]

It is inevitable that pacifism be written out of the constitution of Japan. We need their ability to field a fully operative military force, beyond self defence, in order to balance China's burgeoning influence in the Pacific Rim. The sooner, the better.

And the Cinese know and fear this. The main reason for the Chinese tyrades aginst Japan becoming a permanent member of the UN Security Council, and against official government visits to the Yasakuni War Memorial shrine.

Go Abe, GO!

[lt.america]

You are right on target regarding China's fear of a more military minded Japan. China's control over North Korea was exposed as nonexistent recently so Japan's hand has been forced and we gave them ample opportunity to get Pyongyang under control.

Rewriting the constitution is the second step as the military has already been granted ministry level status, but the biggest hurdle will be the change in mindset as the military still does not have the respect of the people but that will come. Bottom line, I am glad they are on our side because they will definitely be a military might throughout Asia.