Common Challenges: US and Japan, Current Japanese view

At a CSIS Japan Chair Forum on Monday, September 16, Japanese Foreign Minister Yoriko Kawaguchi discussed Japan's foreign and economic policies, including Japan's contribution to the international coalition against terrorism, and relations with the United States, China, and the Middle East, as well as other regional security issues in Asia and on the Korean peninsula. While discussing Prime Minister Koizumi's imminent visit to North Korea, Kawaguchi stated, "We are calling on North Korea to respond positively to international concerns over security, non-proliferation and humanitarian issues, including the abductions of Japanese citizens. Cooperation and coordination among the U.S., the Republic of Korea and Japan remain crucial in this regard.