Minister of Defense Hamada announced that he would visit the United States to meet face-to-face for the first time with Secretary of Defense Austin. I would like to confirm cooperation.
Defense Minister Hamada will visit the United States for four days from the 13th and will meet with Secretary of Defense Austin for the first time on the 15th of Japan time.
At the meeting, based on the fact that China, which had resented the visit to Taiwan by U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, was increasing pressure on Taiwan through large-scale military exercises and other measures, Japan and the U.S. agreed to work closely together toward peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. I would like to confirm cooperation.
In addition, through the revision of three security-related documents, including the "National Security Strategy," which will be carried out towards the end of the year, we intend to communicate our determination to drastically strengthen our defense capabilities within five years.
Prior to departure, Minister Hamada said at a press conference, "It is very important to have face-to-face discussions with Secretary Austin and build a personal relationship. The idea is to confirm the