Japan-United States of America Relations

On September 23 (local time; 7:30 a.m. on September 24, Japan time), commencing at around 6:30 p.m. for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, who is visiting the United States, had dinner with the Honorable Donald J. Trump, President of the United States, at the President's invitation, at the Trump Tower in New York, joined only by their interpreters. The overview is as follows.

1. Ahead of the United Nations General Assembly, the leaders exchanged candid views not only on the Japan-U.S. relationship but also on international affairs. In particular, with regard to North Korea, the leaders shared the view that they will continue to coordinate closely to further build upon the momentum created by the U.S.-North Korea Summit in June towards the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. With respect to the abductions issue, Prime Minister Abe conveyed the strong earnest message from the families of the abductees to President Trump. President Trump leaned forward, listened intently and stated once again that he had strongly conveyed the views of Japan to Chairman Kim Jong Un.
2. Regarding the economy, the leaders exchanged candid views on various issues related to U.S. trade, along with bilateral economic issues between Japan and the U.S. Constructive discussions took place regarding issues such as commerce, investment, trade between Japan and the U.S. and the talks for free, fair and reciprocal trade deals (FFR). In addition, it was decided that at the forthcoming Japan-U.S. Summit Meeting on September 26, the leaders would hold discussions based on the talks between Mr. Toshimitsu Motegi, Minister in charge of Economic Revitalization and Fiscal Policy of Japan, and Ambassador. Robert Lighthizer, United States Trade Representative, which is scheduled to be held on September 24.