Japan-United States of America Relations

1. At the beginning, President Trump stated that North Korea’s reckless actions are unacceptable, and stated that the United States is with Japan 100% and will support Japan 100%. In response, Prime Minister Abe once again thanked President Trump for a wide range of his hospitality during Prime Minister Abe’s visit to the United States, and stated that the talk by both leaders immediately after North Korea’s ballistic missile launches on March 6 demonstrates that Japan and the United States are always together.

2. Prime Minister Abe pointed out that North Korea launched several ballistic missiles on March 6, and three of them fell in Japan’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and one of them came down in the vicinity of the EEZ. Prime Minister Abe stated that the missile launches are clear provocations to the security of the regional and international community including Japan, and are totally unacceptable.

3. Additionally, Prime Minister Abe stated that he appreciated the United States demonstrating to the world its position that “all options are on the table,” and explained that with the United States’ strong military commitment as a backdrop, he intends to deter North Korea and strongly urge North Korea to exercise self-restraint from further provocative actions and to comply with the relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions. Prime Minister Abe also referred to the ongoing policy review on North Korea by the U.S. government, and stated that it will be important for Japan and the United States to solidly coordinate their views and share strategic goals and other objectives.

4. In response, President Trump stated that the United States supports Japan 100% and he would like Prime Minister Abe to tell it to the people of Japan. He also said that the Japan-U.S. Alliance is robust and the United States’ commitment to Japan’s security is unwavering. Furthermore, President Trump stated that he hopes Japan and the United States, and Japan, the United States and the Republic of Korea (ROK) will coordinate closely, including at the United Nations (UN), and mentioned the importance of China’s role.

5. Additionally, Prime Minister Abe stated that in line with the frank exchange of views during his visit to the United States, Japan is prepared to fulfill a larger role and responsibility within the Japan-U.S. Alliance in order to enhance deterrence of the Alliance, and he hopes to promptly move forward with considerations and consultations to that end. The two leaders agreed to hold a “2+2” Ministerial Meeting promptly and promote ministerial-level discussions. They also agreed that Japan and the United States, and Japan, the United States and the ROK will coordinate closely.