Deal to move Okinawa base wins approval

But in a reflection of the controversy surrounding his decision,Nakaima later Friday said he was personally skeptical of the planned location for the new base and he would prefer that it be moved out of the region altogether,as many Okinawans want. Protesters opposed to the base have branded Nakaima a traitor for reversing his previous opposition to the relocation plan.

Nakaima also said he would call for the closure of the old base in five years,even though the plan lays out a relocation process that lasts twice as long.

I gave my legal approval. But the relocation will not be easy, Nakaima said at a news conference broadcast live on national television. In fact,I dont think its feasibility is very high. I think moving the base outside Okinawa is a better plan.

I thank Nakaima for the brave decision, Abe said. He said the government would continue to do what it can to reduce the burden of the base on local residents.