Tokyo, 2 September 2023 (TDI): In a significant diplomatic meeting, Hayashi Yoshimasa, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, hosted General Anthony J. Cotton, Commander of the U.S. Strategic Command (STRATCOM), during his visit to Japan on September 1.
The meeting, which lasted approximately 20 minutes, reaffirmed the deep-rooted ties between Japan and the United States and their shared commitment to regional security.
Minister Hayashi warmly welcomed General Cotton to Japan and expressed his appreciation for the critical role played by STRATCOM in providing extended deterrence and ensuring the security of Japan around the clock.
Minister Hayashi emphasized the vital importance of this security guarantee and its role in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
“The Japan-U.S. Alliance stands as the cornerstone of peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region,” Minister Hayashi stated during the courtesy call.
He highlighted the unparalleled significance of this alliance, particularly in the face of current challenges, and noted the alignment of national security strategies between Japan and the United States.
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Minister Hayashi also emphasized Japan’s commitment to strengthening the deterrence and response capabilities of the Alliance, seeking to enhance synergy in the implementation of these strategies.
During the meeting, both sides engaged in a candid and comprehensive exchange of views regarding the increasingly complex security environment in the region.
This discussion encompassed topics such as North Korea’s heightened nuclear and missile activities, as well as issues related to China and Russia, underscoring the shared concerns and commitment to addressing these challenges.
General Cotton, in response to Minister Hayashi’s concerns, affirmed the unwavering extended deterrence pledge of the United States to Japan.
He assured Japan of the active cooperation of STRATCOM in fulfilling this commitment, demonstrating the United States’ steadfast commitment to Japan’s security and regional stability.
Both parties also recognized the importance of continuing and intensifying bilateral discussions on extended deterrence at various levels, including the Japan-U.S. Extended Deterrence Dialogue.
