Japan-U.S. Foreign Ministerial Meeting (Summary)

On May 21, for just under 30 minutes from just after 12:10 p.m. (local time), during his visit to Chicago to attend the NATO Summit, Foreign Minister Gemba held a meeting with Secretary of State Clinton. The outline of the meeting is as follows.

1. Japan-U.S. Relations

The two ministers shared the view that the recent visit by Prime Minister Noda to the United States was extremely productive, as seen in the release of the "Shared Vision", which sets out where the Japan-U.S. Alliance should be headed in the longer term. They also shared their view that it is important to further strengthen the alliance based on the "Shared Vision" and to implement responsibly the 2+2 Joint Statement released last April and that they would continue cooperation.
The two ministers also shared the view that they would make further efforts to advance Japan-U.S. consultations on the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). In addition, Foreign Minister Gemba mentioned that Mr. Shotaro Oshima was recently appointed as Special Representative of the Government of Japan, in charge of consultations toward participating in the TPP negotiations with the countries concerned.
Regarding the import of LNG from the U.S. to Japan, the two ministers reaffirmed that they would continue the discussion based on the exchange at the Japan-U.S. Summit last month.
Concerning child custody issues, with regard to the Hague Convention, Secretary Clinton appreciated that the Japanese government had introduced the Convention to the Diet along with its relevant domestic law, and stated that she looks forward to its implementation in the future.

2. Afghanistan

Foreign Minister Gemba stated that securing public order is a condition for the stability and development of Afghanistan, and specifically explained Japan's position of making appropriate contributions to the Afghan security force beyond 2015. In response, Secretary Clinton expressed her appreciation.
Additionally, Foreign Minister Gemba explained his views on the Tokyo Conference in July. The ministers exchanged views on the mutual commitments that Afghanistan will improve its governance and the international community will provide assistance. They also shared the view that a follow-up mechanism will be important, and that Japan and the U.S. will cooperate on this issue in the future.

3. Iran

Foreign Minister Gemba stated that he expected substantive progress will be made at the Baghdad meeting between the EU 3+3 and Iran on May 23. He also stated that Japan will continue to put "pressure" on Iran, emphasize international cooperation, and reach out to Iran.

4. North Korea

The ministers shared the recognition that a firm response would be required in the event of any further provocation by North Korea. They also agreed on the importance of China's role concerning this issue.