(Tokyo Comprehensive News) Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi spoke with US President Trump for the first time on Saturday, agreeing to further strengthen the Japan-US alliance and elevate the relationship to a new level.
Takaichi and Trump both attended the ASEAN summit in Malaysia on Sunday (October 26). Takaichi, who arrived earlier in Kuala Lumpur, spoke with Trump on Saturday (October 25) for about 10 minutes.
In a statement, Takaichi told Trump that strengthening the Japan-US alliance is a top diplomatic and security priority for her administration. "We reaffirmed our shared commitment to elevating the alliance to a new level. I also expressed my respect for President Trump's leadership in the recent Middle East situation."
She also stated that Japan is an indispensable partner in the US's China strategy and Indo-Pacific strategy, and "I expressed my willingness to continue to work together to advance the vision of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)."
When asked about her impression of Trump, Takaichi described him as "outgoing and charismatic." She revealed that Trump knew her well and shared fond memories of the late Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. "He said he knew I was one of the politicians Prime Minister Abe cared deeply about. I expressed my gratitude for the kindness and friendship he had shown to Mrs. Abe this year."
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During the call, Takaichi also requested Trump's assistance in resolving the issue of North Korean abductions of Japanese citizens and expressed anticipation and welcome for Trump's upcoming visit to Japan.
Trump will begin his visit to Japan on Monday (the 27th) and is scheduled to meet with Takaichi on Tuesday (the 28th).
