On October 13, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker and Japan's Senior Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Namazu Hiroyuki held a meeting in Tokyo to lead the U.S.-Japan Dialogue on a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. The two officials discussed how to coordinate their approaches and set priorities for the region.
According to a joint statement, the ongoing cooperation between the United States and Japan is seen as essential for maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. "Ongoing U.S.-Japan cooperation ensures peace and stability based on the rule of law in the Indo-Pacific, which is essential for a safe, prosperous, and secure future for the people of the United States of America and Japan," the statement said.
Both sides agreed to strengthen their alignment on regional issues. This includes responding to destabilizing activities by China and North Korea, enhancing maritime security and law enforcement cooperation, and promoting a global economic order that is free and fair. The dialogue also addressed expanding cooperation in areas such as critical minerals supply chains, energy, and advanced technologies.
The two officials committed to working more closely with like-minded countries and agreed to continue regular engagement to further efforts for a free and open Indo-Pacific region.