Tokyo: Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday confirmed their commitment to enhancing the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-US alliance while promoting concrete security cooperation between the two countries, Japan's Foreign Ministry announced.
According to Kuwait News Agency, during their first meeting since Motegi assumed office last week, Motegi expressed his eagerness to work closely with Rubio to showcase to the world the strength of the Japan-US alliance. He described it as the greatest alliance globally, as stated in a press release by the ministry.
Rubio responded by expressing his intention to further reinforce the Japan-US alliance, particularly in the areas of security and economic collaboration. Rubio is visiting Japan alongside US President Donald Trump, who arrived on Monday.
The ministers also agreed to cooperate on issues involving China and their policies toward North Korea, focusing on nuclear and missile concerns. Motegi expressed strong support for US diplomatic initiatives worldwide, including in regions such as the Middle East, Ukraine, Cambodia, and Thailand.
Additionally, they confirmed a mutual commitment to further develop networks with like-minded countries, including South Korea, the Philippines, Australia, and India, to achieve a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific." Motegi and Rubio also discussed economic matters, with Motegi highlighting the importance of implementing bilateral agreements and advancing cooperation on critical supply chains.