NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI, Japan -- Marking his first official travel to the Asia-Pacific region, Vice President Mike Pence made his first stop in Japan landing at Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi on April 18.

During the Japan portion of his regional visit, the Vice President will travel to Tokyo where he will meet with Prime Minister Shinzō Abe and lead the inaugural U.S.-Japan Economic Dialogue with Deputy Prime Minister Tarō Asō. The Vice President will also participate in a listening session followed by remarks to the U.S. and Japanese business community.

Naval Air Facility Atsugi Commanding Officer, Capt. John Bushey, said NAF Atsugi serving as the inaugural naval installation in Japan to host the Vice President on his first official visit here is a great opportunity to highlight the service of Sailors, Families and Civilians at the tip of the spear as well as showcase the base.

“We’re extremely honored to support the Vice President and his staff during his visit to Japan, and proud our Sailors in Atsugi can participate in welcoming him on his first official visit to Japan,” Bushey said.

Continuing the Administration’s commitment to rebuilding the U.S. military and to its alliances in the region, the Vice President will tour the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), where he will receive a briefing on the U.S.-Japan Alliance by U.S. Forces, Japan Commander Lt. Gen. Jerry Martinez. He will also give remarks to Japan-based Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines, as well as members of the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF).

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to provide Vice President Pence with update on the Alliance as well as the incredible efforts by our joint force and their Japan Self Defense Force counterparts,” Martinez said. “The Vice President will leave here knowing that the US-Japan Alliance and the relationship between our militaries is stronger than ever before, and is only growing stronger as we face an increasingly tense regional security environment.”

During his trip, the Vice President will emphasize President Trump’s continued commitment to U.S. alliances and partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region, highlight the Administration’s economic agenda, and underscore America’s support for our troops at home and abroad.

“Our visiting senior leaders continue to reaffirm America’s commitment to the Alliance and to the defense of Japan. These visits are a clear signal that President Trump’s Administration places a high priority on this region, and specifically on our strongest allies like Japan,” said Martinez.