Japan-U.S. Summit Teleconference

October 12, 2008

Prime Minister Taro Aso received a telephone call from U.S. President George W. Bush for about 10 minutes from 23:30 (Japan time) on October 11.
In the teleconference, President Bush said that the United States and Japan completely shared a view on the necessity of establishing a rigorous framework for verification regarding North Korea’s nuclear programs, and explained the results of the negotiations between the United States and North Korea to date. President Bush also expressed his strong support for Japan’s position on the abduction issue and said that he had strong feelings on the abduction issue and understood that the Japanese people have strong concerns and anxieties, and conveyed his deep sympathy for the families of the victims and sincere feelings for the resolution of this issue.
In response, Prime Minister Aso said that he would like to continue close cooperation between Japan and the United States when the Six Parties negotiate on a verification protocol so that a rigorous agreement can be reached, and President Bush said he fully agreed with this.

(END)