Japan PM vows to settle US base dispute by May

More than half of the 47,000 U.S. troops stationed in Japan under a 1960 security treaty are on Okinawa, where residents have complained for years about noise, pollution and crime around the bases.

"We will find what's best to keep our alliance with the U.S. as a cornerstone of peace in Japan and Asia, while reducing the burden of the Okinawan people," Hatoyama said.

Hatoyama, mapping out his key goals in a policy speech in parliament, said an "unshakable" alliance with the U.S. is crucial in deepening Japan's ties with Asia under his proposed plan to establish an East Asian community. Strengthening economic ties with other Asian countries is key to Japan's future growth, and such a community should include the U.S., he said.

The alliance "has served an indispensable role" for Japan and for regional and global peace, he said. "Its importance will not be changed."

He said he would decide by the end of May on a new site for the U.S. Marine Airfield Futenma.