Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae: “I visited the White House and held a Japan-U.S. summit meeting with President Trump.

“Regarding the ongoing tense situation in Iran, we confirmed the importance of swiftly calming the situation and ensuring the safety of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and the stable supply of energy. 

“This is also important from the perspective of protecting our country’s national interests.I conveyed these thoughts to President Trump and confirmed that we will continue firm communication to realize them.

“I also proposed initiatives to stabilize the global energy market.  We reached agreements on expanding and procuring crude oil production in the United States, cooperation on small modular reactors (SMRs), and even cooperation on the development of rare earth mud in the waters around Minamitorishima. This will contribute to our country’s resource and energy security.

“We also exchanged views on China, North Korea, and other matters.  In particular, regarding the North Korean abduction issue, I conveyed my own determination, and President Trump promised full cooperation.

“Through this meeting, I believe it was a significant achievement to have confirmed many specific areas of cooperation to further enhance the “quality” of the Japan-U.S. alliance across a wide range of fields, including security, economic security, and the economy.

“Additionally, we confirmed our commitment to vigorously advance a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)” together with President Trump.

“Going forward, I will continue close interactions with President Trump, aiming for even greater heights in the Japan-U.S. alliance.”