Japan-United States of America Relations
Courtesy Call on Prime Minister Kishida by the Delegation of the President of the Iwo Jima Association of America
April 1, 2024
(Photo: Cabinet Public Affairs Office)
(Photo: Cabinet Public Affairs Office)
On April 1, commencing at 6:05 p.m. for approximately 10 minutes, Mr. KISHIDA Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan, received a courtesy call from Major General (retired) David Bice, President of the Iwo Jima Association of America and its delegation, who are visiting Japan for the Reunion of Honor Ceremony. The overview of the meeting is as follows. Mr. SHINDO Yoshitaka, Minister of State for Economic and Fiscal Policy, also attended the courtesy call.
- At the outset, Prime Minister Kishida stated that the Iwo-To Association of Japan and the Iwo-Jima Association of America, which have been co-hosting the Reunion of Honor Ceremony, are the symbols of reconciliation between Japan and the U.S.. Prime Minister also mentioned that he is very pleased to welcome the delegation of the Iwo-Jima Association of America before his official visit to the U.S.. In response, President Bice stated that the Iwo-Jima Association of America is proud of having contributed to a strong Japan-U.S. relation through the Reunion of Honor and having the opportunity to pay a courtesy call this time.
- Prime Minister Kishida stated that it is necessary for Japan and the U.S. to cooperate further closely today when the international community is facing various challenges. Prime Minister mentioned that he aims to further deepen a close coordination between Japan and the U.S. and demonstrate strong Japan-U.S. relations to the world during his official visit to the U.S. in April and encouraged to continue the Reunion of Honor Ceremony that is an important connection supporting an unshakable Japan-U.S. bond. In response, President Bice stated that he would like to continue the Reunion of Honor Ceremony, which is a symbol of Japan-U.S. friendship.
(Reference)Reunion of Honor Ceremony
The Ceremony is co-hosted by The Iwo-To Association of Japan and the Iwo-Jima Association of America to commemorate the war dead during the Battle of Iwo-Jima and pray for Japan-U.S. friendship as well as eternal peace. This year’s ceremony was held on March 30, 2024.