Press Releases
Japan-U.S. Foreign Ministers’ Telephone Talk
January 6, 2022
On January 6, commencing at 8:10 a.m., for 35 minutes, Mr. HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a Japan-U.S. Foreign Ministers’ telephone talk with the Honorable Antony Blinken, Secretary of State of the United States of America. The overview of the talk is as follows.
- The two ministers reaffirmed that Japan and the United States would work together to strengthen the Japan-U.S. Alliance and realize a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific”.
- In light of the recent COVID-19 infection status among the personnel of U.S. Forces in Japan (USFJ), Foreign Minister Hayashi strongly urged the U.S. side to strengthen and enforce measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including putting in place restrictions on off-base activities in order to alleviate local anxieties. Secretary Blinken responded that the health and safety of not only USFJ personnel but also that of local residents is very important for the United States. He also stated that he would immediately convey Japan's message to the Department of Defense, would work closely with the Japanese government, and would do everything possible to prevent the further spread of the virus.
- The two ministers exchanged their views on recent regional affairs.
- (1) Regarding North Korea, Foreign Minister Hayashi stated that North Korea's nuclear and missile activities, including the missile launch on January 5, pose a threat to the peace and stability of Japan, the region and the international community, and the two ministers shared the view to continue working closely towards the complete denuclearization of North Korea in accordance with the United Nations Security Council resolutions.
- (2) Regarding Russia and Ukraine, Secretary Blinken explained the recent situation and the two ministers confirmed that Japan and the United States would continue to work together in response to the current situation.