US Remains Hopeful About Tariff Talks with Japan
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Synopsis
On April 22, US Ambassador George Glass expressed optimism regarding tariff negotiations with Japan during a meeting with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. Ahead of the second round of talks, both leaders emphasized the importance of the Japan-US alliance and mutual cooperation in addressing regional issues.
Key Takeaways
- George Glass remains optimistic about tariff talks.
- PM Ishiba emphasizes the Japan-US alliance's importance.
- Discussion includes regional issues like China and North Korea.
- Cooperation in various fields is prioritized.
- Meetings aim to strengthen diplomatic ties.
Tokyo, April 22 (NationPress) George Glass, the US Ambassador to Japan, on Tuesday conveyed a sense of optimism regarding the ongoing tariff discussions between Washington and Tokyo during his meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.
These comments were made ahead of the upcoming second round of negotiations, which is anticipated to occur later this month, as reported by local media.
After his meeting with PM Ishiba, Glass stated that the two nations are experiencing a “golden age” in terms of both their economic ties and friendship.
He also noted that the “best and brightest” from the United States and Japan have been collaborating on ways to bolster their economies and strengthen cooperation, expressing that he is “very optimistic” about the outcomes, according to Kyodo News.
The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that PM Ishiba and Ambassador Glass exchanged perspectives on the current state of Japan-US relations, including the US tariff measures.
The ministry indicated that the Prime Minister shared his commitment to fostering cooperation across various sectors in a mutually beneficial way, which Ambassador Glass supported.
PM Ishiba emphasized that the Japan-US alliance is the “cornerstone” of Japan’s diplomatic and security framework and expressed his desire to enhance mutually beneficial cooperation and further reinforce the alliance, as stated by the ministry.
Echoing this sentiment, Ambassador Glass remarked that the Japan-US alliance is of paramount importance and he aims to work towards its further strengthening, the statement noted.
Both parties discussed regional matters, including China and North Korea. PM Ishiba requested ongoing understanding and collaboration for the immediate resolution of the abduction issue, receiving full support from Ambassador-Designate Glass, the statement added.
Additionally, on Monday, Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi welcomed Ambassador Glass and expressed his intention to hold open discussions aimed at enhancing the Japan-US alliance, according to a statement from the Japanese Foreign Ministry.
“Moreover, both sides shared insights concerning Japan-US security and defense cooperation to bolster the alliance's deterrence and response capabilities, with Foreign Minister Iwaya articulating Japan’s stance on minimizing impacts on local communities,” it continued.
