In the early hours of the 15th (Japan time), Minister of Defense Hamada had his first face-to-face meeting with Secretary of Defense Austin during his visit to the United States.
In light of China's increasing pressure on Taiwan, the two leaders confirmed the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and agreed to encourage a peaceful resolution.
At the beginning of the meeting, Secretary Austin said, "China's provocative actions in the Taiwan Strait and in the waters surrounding Japan are unprecedented and destabilizing the region. The United States' commitment to Japan's defense is unwavering." rice field.
In response, Minister Hamada said, "Russia's aggression against Ukraine, China's ballistic missile landing in waters near Japan, and China-Russia joint exercises are occurring. I must not allow it," he said.
In light of China's increasing pressure on Taiwan, the two leaders confirmed the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and agreed to encourage a peaceful resolution.
In addition, Russia's military invasion of Ukraine is an outrageous act that shakes the very foundations of the international order.
Concerning North Korea, we confirmed that Japan and the United States, as well as Japan, the United States, and the ROK, will work even more closely together to respond to a series of provocative acts, such as the launch of ballistic missiles.
On the other hand, Minister Hamada said, regarding the revision of the three security-related documents, including the National Security Strategy, which will be revised toward the end of the year, "I would like to consider all options, including the so-called counterattack capability, and realize a drastic strengthening of defense capabilities." , conveyed the idea of working on a substantial increase in the defense budget, and Secretary Austin expressed strong support.
They also confirmed that the strategic directions of both sides are consistent, and agreed to work even more closely together to strengthen the Japan-U.S. Alliance.
Minister of Defense Hamada “We were able to have a frank discussion and will continue to cooperate closely”
Defense Minister Hamada told reporters, "It is very significant that I met Secretary of Defense Austin for the first time and was able to have a candid discussion about the security situation and the strengthening of the Japan-U.S. alliance while touching on his honest personality." rice field.
In addition, he said, "We will use the results of the talks to formulate a new national security strategy and discuss the drastic strengthening of defense capabilities, and continue to work closely with Secretary Austin to further strengthen the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-U.S. alliance." I want to work on it," he said.