Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio held summit talks with President Joe Biden on April 10, and the two leaders agreed on closer cooperation in defense and security. 

S/ Kishida Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan: I would like this meeting to be a valuable opportunity to show the world what kind of future Japan and the United States are trying to build. 

S/ Joe Biden, US President: Today I look forward to discussing how we can deepen it (the alliance) more, including increasing defense, technology, and cooperation across-the-board. 

After the meeting, the two leaders issued a joint statement titled “Global Partners for the Future,” They agreed to strengthen cooperation in defense and security. 

Specifically, they confirmed the strengthening of the command and control functions of the Self-Defense Forces and the U.S. military in Japan. The aim is to respond more smoothly to threats from China and North Korea.  In addition, they confirmed that they will promote joint development of semiconductors and strengthen supply chains, with China’s economic coercion in mind. 

In the space sector, they agreed on a policy to land two Japanese astronauts on the lunar surface, aiming for a Japanese national to become the first non-American to landing on the moon. 

S/ Kishida Fumio, Prime Minister of Japan: Now is the time for Japan and the United States to demonstrate their true value as global partners. Regarding the various issues surrounding China, we strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion, and we will continue to work closely together on these issues. 

We agreed on these matters. 

S/ Joe Biden, US President: Through it all, our commitment to the defense of Japan and (the U.S.-Japan Security Treaty's) Article 5, including Senkaku Islands is unwavering. 

Regarding North Korea, Prime Minister Kishida sought understanding and cooperation in resolving the abduction issue, and President Biden expressed his support. In addition, Prime Minister Kishida reiterated his intention to hold a Japan-North Korea summit meeting, and President Biden indicated his intention to welcome it.