Press Releases
Vice-Minister Funakoshi conveyed GOJ’s position to U.S. Ambassador-Designate George Glass
April 30, 2025
On April 30, Mr. FUNAKOSHI Takehiro, Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, met Mr. George Glass, Ambassador-Designate of the United States, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and on behalf of Foreign Minister IWAYA, conveyed the GOJ’s position following the indictment of a U.S. military servicemember for sexual assault that occurred in Okinawa in March 2025. The overview is as follows.
- Vice-Minister Funakoshi expressed that it is extremely regrettable that a U.S. military servicemember was indicted for sexual assault which occurred in Okinawa in March this year. Vice-Minister Funakoshi noted the measures implemented by the U.S. side to prevent the recurrence of incidents, including the recent joint patrol in Okinawa City. He once again strongly urged the U.S. side to strengthen discipline and to prevent the recurrence of incidents.
- Ambassador-Designate Glass responded that he is deeply concerned by the recent indictment involving a U.S. servicemember. He reaffirmed that the United States takes seriously all criminal allegations against U.S. personnel and cooperates fully with local authorities and the GOJ in their investigations. He restated that as guests of Japan, all American servicemembers are expected to meet the very highest standards of conduct and integrity, and that the United States deeply values the ties of trust and friendship it has built over many decades with Japan, and that he is committed to doing everything he can to prevent actions that may jeopardize these bonds.
- Both sides concurred to maintain close cooperation.