Members of the government and ruling coalition on Thursday had different takes on what they would consider acceptable progress over relocating the U.S. Futenma air base, as the likelihood of resolving the contentious issue by the end of May faded following Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama's unproductive visit to Washington.
"A conclusion will be a conclusion," Hatoyama told reporters when asked if he intends to reach an agreement, as pledged, by the end of May with both Washington and local government.
"It means that all parties will have agreed on a single plan (by then), and I intend to reach such a condition," Hatoyama said.