S/ Ishiba Shigeru, Japanese Prime Minister / We have requested reconsideration at various levels. Despite that, these measures were taken, and I find that extremely regrettable and disappointing.

Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru made the remarks in response to US President Donald Trump's announcement that the United States will impose 24 percent reciprocal tariffs on imports from Japan.

Ishiba called pertinent Cabinet members, including trade minister Muto Yoji, farm minister Eto Taku and Finance Minister Kato Katsunobu, to his office in Tokyo on April 3 to discuss the matter.

The Japanese leader told his ministers to thoroughly examine the details of the tariff measures and analyze their impact, to ensure financial assistance and other necessary support to domestic industries, and to strongly urge the US government to reconsider the tariff measures.

Ishiba also expressed willingness to directly approach Trump himself, saying he will not hesitate to do so.