Japan-United States of America Relations

1. At the beginning, President Trump extended his congratulations on the result of the election, and stated that it is extremely important that a powerful leader has obtained strong support from its people. In response, Prime Minister Abe expressed sincere gratitude for President Trump’s congratulations, and explained that it had been really a long and severe election campaign. Prime Minister Abe stated that, during his election campaign, he strongly conveyed the message to the public that it is necessary to apply the utmost possible pressure under the unwavering Japan-U.S. Alliance in order to address the threat of North Korea and bring about a change in North Korea’s policies.

2. Furthermore, Prime Minister Abe stated that he is looking forward to President Trump’s visit to Japan in two weeks, and intends to hold deep discussions with President Trump regarding various issues, including North Korea during his visit. Prime Minister Abe also expressed his appreciation that President Trump will meet with the families of the abductees, and asked President Trump to listen carefully to the families’ words. Prime Minister Abe announced that he and President Trump are scheduled to play golf with a professional golfer, Mr. Hideki Matsuyama, in the afternoon of November 5, and President Trump replied that he is very much looking forward to visiting Japan.

3. The two leaders also shared the view that Japan and the United States, and Japan, the United States and the Republic of Korea will work more closely to increase pressure by the international community on North Korea, and that when President Trump visits Japan, they will further deepen discussion, and enhance the solidarity between Japan and the United States.