TOKYO, Aug 21: Japan’s defence minister headed on Tuesday to Pakistan for talks on Tokyo’s role in the “war on terror,” which has come under criticism at home.

Defence Minister Yuriko Koike, who left as Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was due in neighbouring India, reaches Pakistan as Abe tries to extend Japanese support to US-led operations in Afghanistan, in which Islamabad plays a pivotal role.

Japan’s centre-left opposition seized control of one house of parliament in elections last month following a raft of domestic scandals. It has vowed to fight against prolonging Japan’s mission supporting the “war on terror”.

“We believe Japan has a very big presence in fighting against terrorism. I want to hear the views of Pakistani people and exchange opinions on how we should cooperate,” Koike told reporters before leaving Japan.

Japanese ships in the Indian Ocean provide refuelling and other support to US-led forces in Afghanistan, including Pakistani vessels, under legislation passed after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

The laws are set to expire November 1. Abe’s coalition still controls the more powerful lower house, but theoretically the upper house could indefinitely stall legislation. Abe has supported a greater military role for Japan, which has been officially pacifist since its defeat in World War II.—AFP