Gates: No Japan-U.S. defense pact option

TOKYO, Oct. 20 (UPI) -- The United States is committed to realizing the defense agreement with Japan reached by the countries' previous leaders, Defense Secretary Robert Gates said.

Meeting in Tokyo Tuesday, Gates said there were "no alternatives" to the complex, wide-range agreement, Voice of America reported.

"We in President Obama's administration understand what it is like to go through a transition period," Gates said. "And, as your government exercises its new responsibilities, I want you to know the United States stands with you and we are committed to advancing and implementing our agreed alliance transformation agenda."

Noting current U.S. and Japanese leaders ran for office speaking against their predecessors' policies, Gates said the new Japanese government must proceed with the agreement to realign U.S. forces in Japan.

Gates said a U.S. review of alternatives determined they were either "politically untenable or operationally unworkable." While some adjustments were possible, Gates said he doubted Congress would agree to significant changes to the agreement, particularly if it would cost the United States more money, VOA said.

Gates's itinerary includes a visit to Seoul Wednesday, where he said he planned to discuss a greater involvement by South Korea in Afghanistan and as well as missile defense.