[Diddley]

Based on where you are and on your experience, I take your point.
But I still appreciate the gesture by the Japanese.

[sushiman]

" But I still appreciate the gesture by the Japanese."

Japan changes Prime Ministers as often as some Frenchmen change their underwear ( joke ! ) , so they aren't concerned about the flak from the public . The Japanese public have shorter memories that the Americans . The last thing Japan wants to infuriate US at a time when North Korea might lob a missile or three over here . Once the Japanese build up their defenses even further , and have nukes , etc. on line ready to go , I bet you'll hear a slight change of tune . Hope I'm wrong , of course ...