I want to congratulate The Japan Times for the good points and observations made in the Oct. 12 editorial "Refugees in Japan." I live in Canada and have been involved with social and religious organizations on behalf of migrants and refugees for a number of years. I believe that, when it comes to humanitarian principles, we need to be more sensitive in today's world and go the extra mile for these people.

We cannot, in good conscience, open our borders daily to tourism, trade and economic activities then close them to human tragedies. The plight of refugees is a challenge to our sense of solidarity and compassion for other human beings.

I had the privilege of visiting Japan early this year and have seen what a beautiful, developed and well-organized country it is. I truly believe that Japan, together with other nations, is able to do more to welcome refugees who are not given a chance for a safe and decent life in their country of origin.

To be more open with these troubled people, in my opinion, speaks volumes about the moral values (human as well spiritual) of one specific country and culture.

maurizio maifredi