The 1971 Okinawa Reversion Agreement was a historic moment in Japanese history that marked the return of Okinawa to Japanese control. The Treaty was signed by the United States` President Richard Nixon and Japan’s Prime Minister Eisaku Sato. The agreement marked the end of a long period of U.S. occupation of Okinawa, which had begun in 1945 following World War II.
The Okinawa Reversion Agreement was a significant moment for both the United States and Japan. It marked the end of a chapter of U.S. military occupation in Japan and the return of control of Okinawa to the Japanese government. The treaty also provided for the reduction in the number of U.S. military personnel stationed in Okinawa.
The Okinawa Reversion Agreement was not without controversy. Many Japanese citizens argued that the United States should have returned Okinawa earlier and that the terms of the agreement were not ideal. Nonetheless, the agreement marked a significant step forward for the relationship between the two countries.
What Was Included in the 1971 Okinawa Reversion Agreement?
The Okinawa Reversion Agreement included several key provisions. Firstly, it provided for the return of Okinawa and other surrounding islands back to Japanese control. This included the previously occupied islands of Kume-jima, Miyako-jima, and Yaeyama-jima.
Secondly, the agreement provided for a significant reduction in the number of U.S. military personnel stationed in Okinawa. The treaty outlined a plan to reduce the number of U.S. military personnel in Okinawa from approximately 31,000 to 10,000 over a five-year period.
The agreement also included provisions for the continued use of U.S. military bases in Okinawa by the United States. For example, the United States would still be allowed to operate military bases in the country and had the authority to use those bases for training exercises and other military operations.
Lastly, the Okinawa Reversion Agreement also included provisions for financial compensation to the Japanese government. The United States government agreed to pay $320 million to Japan over a four-year period as compensation for the return of Okinawa and surrounding islands.
Conclusion
The 1971 Okinawa Reversion Agreement marked a significant moment in Japanese history. The treaty symbolized the end of a long period of U.S. military occupation in Okinawa and the return of control of the region to the Japanese government. The treaty also marked a turning point in the relationship between Japan and the United States and set the stage for a more positive and collaborative partnership. Despite the controversy surrounding the treaty, its significance cannot be denied, and it remains an important part of Japanese history.