The United States and Japan are strong allies firmly committed to peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region, Defense Secretary James N. Mattis said yesterday in Tokyo.
In a media availability after talks with Japanese Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera, Mattis said he and his Japanese counterpart discussed the opportunities to increase the alliance's capability, deepen cooperation and enhance regional security.
“We're in the midst of very unprecedented negotiations right now with North Korea,” Mattis said. “But in this dynamic time, the long-standing alliance between Japan and the United States stands firm.”
He described the U.S.-Japan alliance as a “cornerstone of Indo-Pacific stability,” saying the U.S. commitment to the alliance “remains ironclad with a long-term ally.”
Mattis noted the trip was his seventh visit as secretary of defense to the Indo-Pacific region. It was his fifth meeting in recent times with Onodera, he said.
“These visits represent just how strongly we prioritize this relationship between our two militaries,” he said. “I think it's fitting for trusted allies as America continues to look west and to strengthen long-standing alliances as specified in President [Donald J.] Trump's Indo-Pacific Strategy.”
Remaining Vigilant on North Korea
Mattis thanked Japan for…
