Aussies answer call to arms

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SYDNEY, Australia -- When Tokyo cast around for candi- dates to replace departing Dutch troops protecting the Japan Self-Defense Forces engaged in reconstruction work in southern Iraq, Australian troops were the ideal choice.

Prime Minister John Howard has been under increasing pressure from the United States and the United Kingdom to match his pro-Bush rhetoric with more ground support. After hostilities officially ended in May 2003, 160 Australian troops remained in Iraq, engaged in noncombat roles.

Observers say Australia's skimpy postwar contribution embarrasses its military when it deals with UK and U.S. counterparts.

Last year, Foreign Minister Alexander Downer turned down a request from U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan to provide troops to protect the U.N. mission in Iraq.

British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw told Tokyo in January that Britain would cooperate fully to ensure the safety of the 550 Japanese troops in mainly Shi'ite and generally peaceful Al Muthanna province, but he was not clear about which British units would be assigned that task. Japan's military activities are limited under its postwar constitution.

Howard saw his chance

When Mr. Howard took a Feb. 18 phone call from Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi seeking his assistance, the Australian leader saw an opportunity to please his traditional alliance partners in the West while developing Canberra's strategic relationship with Tokyo.

In a reversal of his policy of not sending peacekeepers to Iraq after the announced end of the war, Mr. Howard has committed 450 more troops there. Explaining his reasons to Australian reporters, he said Iraq was at "a tilting point."

"It's difficult. I know it's not popular with some people, but it's the right decision, and in the fullness of time, that will be demonstrated," he said.

He said Japan's continued presence in Iraq is vital. "Working alongside and in partnership with a close regional ally and partner such as Japan is very important from Australia's point of view," Mr. Howard added.