Press Releases
Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Akitaka Saiki’s meeting with Deputy Secretary of State of the United States Tony Blinken
On February 13, commencing at 11:30 a.m. for approximately two hours, Mr. Akitaka Saiki, Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, held a meeting over lunch with Mr. Tony Blinken, Deputy Secretary of State of the United States, during his visit to Japan. The overview is as follows.
1. Both sides expressed their respective condolences over the death of the U.S. national who was captured by ISIL and the murder of the Japanese hostages. In light of these incidents, they confirmed that they will work together to counter terrorism, in close coordination with the international community as well.
2. Noting that this year marks the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II, both sides reflected on the fact that the two countries reconciled after the war, became strong allies, and have contributed together to the regional and global peace and prosperity. They confirmed that Japan and the United States will continue their contribution together. Both sides shared the recognition that they will cooperate for the success of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s official visit to the United States. Both sides confirmed that they will continue to strengthen the Japan-U.S. Alliance in every field, including security and economy.
3. Taking into the account of Deputy Secretary Blinken’s visits to the Republic of Korea (ROK) and China prior to his visit to Japan, both sides exchanged views on the situation in East Asia. They shared the recognition that in responding to North Korea, they will continue their bilateral coordination and the trilateral coordination with the ROK.
4. In addition, both sides also exchanged views on issues including the Iranian nuclear problem, the situation in Ukraine, and cooperation with Southeast Asia, and confirmed the importance of Japan-U.S. cooperation.