Japan-U.S. Foreign Ministerial Meeting
Summary
September 21, 2009
Japanese
Foreign Minister Okada, who was visiting New York to attend the 64th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, held a meeting with Secretary Clinton for approximately 45 minutes beginning at 4:30 P.M. EST on September 21.
1. Japan-U.S. Relations
In the opening, Secretary Clinton congratulated the inauguration of the new administration. In response, Foreign Minister Okada stated that the recent change of government was a historic event and that the new administration bore a heavy responsibility to live up to the expectations of the Japanese people. Concerning Japan-U.S. relations, Secretary Clinton stated that the Japan-U.S. alliance was the cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy and the foundation for peace and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region. The Secretary also stated that she would like to further broaden and deepen the historically firm Japan-U.S. relations and address various issues based on the spirit of partnership. Foreign Minister Okada responded that he wished to forge a deeper Japan-U.S. relationship that could be sustained for more than 30 or 50 years ahead, and that in order to do so, he would like to solve various issues that lay ahead of the two countries through discussions.
Foreign Minister Okada explained that, when he assumed his office, he identified three issues that require his great effort in the next 100 days, namely the issue of climate change in the run-up to COP15 to be held in December, reconstruction assistance for Afghanistan and Pakistan, and issues concerning the Japan-U.S. alliance including those of bases in Okinawa and the realignment of U.S. forces in Japan. Concerning various issues regarding the Japan-U.S. security arrangements including Okinawa, Foreign Minister Okada stated that the Japanese government would consider concrete measures in the days to come, and that he hoped to work in close cooperation with the U.S.
2. North Korea
Both sides agreed that North Korea's possession of nuclear weapons and the development of nuclear programs could not be tolerated, and that the complete and verifiable denuclearization must be achieved. They also agreed to further strengthen cooperation between Japan and the U.S. as well as among Japan, the U.S. and the Republic of Korea to comprehensively resolve the nuclear, missile and abduction issues. Secretary Clinton stated that the abduction issue was distressing, citing her meeting with the families of the abductees during her visit to Japan in February 2009, and also expressed her personal concern. Foreign Minister Okada stated that the normalization of relations with North Korea without resolving the nuclear, missile and abduction issues was inconceivable, and that there would be no change on the basic policy towards North Korea despite the change of government in Japan.
3. Global Issues
(1) Climate Change
Both sides agreed that climate change was a matter of great urgency and importance, and that developed countries, especially Japan and the U.S., must demonstrate leadership.
(2) Afghanistan and Pakistan
Both sides agreed that the reconstruction of Afghanistan and the stability of Pakistan were issues of utmost importance, which were linked to the eradication of terrorism and the stability of the world. Foreign Minister Okada stated that Japan would like to play a proactive role, as its own issue, in the reconstruction assistance in such fields as the civil affairs as its own agenda. Secretary Clinton expressed appreciation toward Japan's leadership and firm position on this issue.
(3) Iran
Concerning the situation of Iran, both sides shared the recognition that they were facing a critical moment and that it was essential to issue a message in concert with many countries, urging Iran to cooperate with the international community. Secretary Clinton stated that it was important to keep delivering a clear message to Iran about the concern of the international community, and that Iran should respond to this concern and should not miss the opportunity for dialogue with the U.S. Foreign Minister Okada stated that Japan would reach out to Iran based on its traditional bilateral relationship.
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