During an official visit to the White House, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida was warmly welcomed by President Joe Biden, signaling a deepening of ties between the United States and Japan. The meeting, held in the Oval Office, underscored the critical role both nations play in maintaining a free and open international order amidst current global challenges.
PRESIDENT BIDEN: “Well, Fumio, welcome back to the White House. Welcome back to the Oval Office. It’s good to have you here and good to see you again.”
Reflecting on their previous meeting last year, President Biden reiterated the growing importance of the U.S.-Japan partnership, especially in light of joint support for Ukraine amid Russia’s aggression. Both leaders discussed their countries’ historic trilateral relationship with South Korea and their economic investments, which have generated millions of jobs across the United States and Japan.
PRESIDENT BIDEN: “And I sincerely want to thank you, Mr. Prime Minister, for your bold leadership across all these issues. You, personally, have made all this possible. And I would assert our alliance has never been stronger in our entire history.”
The discussions also ventured into areas of increased defense, technology cooperation, and ensuring the Indo-Pacific remains a free, open, and prosperous region. Biden expressed his appreciation for Prime Minister Kishida’s leadership, heralding him as a “genuine leader, a true partner, and a good friend.”
From the Japanese side, Prime Minister Kishida expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality and emphasized the enduring friendship and trust between him and President Biden. He highlighted the pivotal role both nations play in maintaining a free and open international order and driving sustainable, inclusive economic growth.
PRIME MINISTER KISHIDA: “Through this official visit, I look forward to confirming the robust bond between our two nations and demonstrate at home and abroad how Japan and the U.S., firmly bound together, will build a future as global partners.”
In amidst their dialogue, questions about a potential Gaza ceasefire were raised by reporters, reflecting the ongoing concerns around global peace efforts.
PRESIDENT BIDEN: “Still negotiating.”
The Oval Office meeting ended on a note of commitment to continued collaboration, affirming the strength and significance of the U.S.-Japan alliance in navigating the complexities of the global stage.
As leaders work on building back a better world, President Biden encourages public involvement and engagement in his administration’s efforts to improve the lives of the American people and maintain global peace and prosperity.