TOKYO — President Barack Obama aims Friday to shore up relations with a new Japanese government vowing to be more assertive with its U.S. ally, even as he grapples with sending more U.S. troops to Afghanistan. Obama arrived at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport early Friday beginning a four-nation Asia trip, his first to the region as president.
Weighing on Obama is a pending decision on Afghan war strategy. Stopping off at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska on his way to Asia, Obama told a military audience he will only commit more forces to Afghanistan if it is vital to U.S. interests and receives public support. “I will not risk your lives unless it is necessary to America’s vital interests,” Obama told the troops. “And if it is necessary,” Obama added, “the United States of America will have your back. We’ll give you the strategy and the clear mission you deserve. We’ll give you the equipment and support you need to get the job done. And that includes public support back home.”