Regarding the visit of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Austin to Japan next week, Foreign Minister Motegi hopes to give an opportunity to show the strong unity of the Japan-US alliance both inside and outside the country by holding ministerial talks on foreign affairs and defense. Shown.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Austin will visit Japan from the 15th next week to hold ministerial talks on foreign affairs and defense, the so-called "2 plus 2".
Foreign Minister Mogi said at a press conference, "The visit of the two ministers to Japan on their first foreign visit is a sign that the United States attaches great importance to the Japan-US alliance, and I would like to welcome it. It is extremely meaningful to discuss the security environment and the international situation with various challenges. "
On that basis, he said, "I would like to take a closer look at the future cooperation for strengthening the Japan-US alliance, and show the unwavering and strong unity of the Japan-US alliance both inside and outside the country. Also, a personal relationship of trust with Secretary of State Blinken. I also want to deepen it. "
Minister of Defense "Strengthening cooperation between the Japan-US alliance and strengthening defense capabilities"
Meanwhile, Defense Minister Kishi emphasized that US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Austin will visit Japan next week, and hope to strengthen their defense capabilities through ministerial talks and other means as China strengthens its marine expansion.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Austin will visit Japan for the first time since the inauguration of the Biden administration, starting next week for three days, and on the 16th, foreign affairs and defense ministerial talks, the so-called "2 Plus" 2 ”and so on.
At a press conference after the Cabinet meeting, Defense Minister Kishi said, "The fact that the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of State visit Japan as the first overseas visits shortly after the inauguration of the Biden administration has been a sign of the emphasis on the Japan-US alliance. I want to exchange opinions without any problems. "
He added, "China is very active in the East China Sea and the South China Sea in general, and it is necessary to strengthen the cooperation between the Japan-US alliance, strengthen the defense force, and convey its presence to China." Through ministerial talks, he emphasized the idea of strengthening defense capabilities.