On Wednesday, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba spoke with U.S. President Joe Biden over the phone. During the following press conference, he emphasized the importance of Japan-South Korea relations.
Japan’s Nikkei reported that this was Ishiba’s first conversation with Biden since taking office. He conveyed his intention to strengthen cooperation as he prioritizes the U.S.-Japan alliance. They also exchanged views on security-related issues.
In his first press conference since taking office the previous day, Ishiba expressed his intention to revise the Status of Forces Agreement. The agreement recognizes the legal privileges of U.S. forces stationed in Japan and aims to establish a training base for Japan’s Self-Defense Forces. Furthermore, he plans to amend the U.S.-Japan Security Treaty to create a more equitable relationship between the two countries. As this outlines U.S. defense obligations to Japan, the U.S. government raises concerns.
During his inaugural press conference, Ishiba also mentioned Japan-South Korea relations. When reporters asked about diplomacy plans with South Korea and the U.S., he stated, “Bilateral relations are important not only with the United States but also with South Korea. We hope to strengthen friendship through political summits. However, the purposes of such discussions must be clear. Since national interests differ, the discussions and the outcomes must be achieved based on each nation’s interests.”
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