Commander, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM), Adm. Phil Davidson hosted Japan’s Minister of Defense, His Excellency Takeshi Iwaya, at the USINDOPACOM headquarters, Dec. 18.

“It was an honor to have Minister of Defense Iwaya here at USINDOPACOM,” Said Davidson. “The U.S. and Japan alliance is the cornerstone for peace and security throughout the region. Japan is a trusted ally and I know that working together we can maintain a Free and Open Indo-Pacific reinforced by the international rule of law for the good of global stability.” 

Iwaya came to Hawaii after a trip to Washington D.C. where he met with Acting secretary of Defense Patrick M. Shanahan.

Earlier in the day he toured the Pacific Missile Range Facility and will also participate in a wreath laying ceremony with Adm. Davidson on Ford Island, Dec. 19.

The two leaders discussed Japan's new National Defense Program Guidelines, as well as the future of U.S.-Japan defense cooperation in the region. Together, the U.S. and Japan continue to promote cooperation toward a Free and Open Indo-Pacific, a vision reflected in both countries’ National Strategies.

This is the Minister's first trip to Hawaii since assuming his position in Oct 18, and will serve to further deepen the already strong ties between the U.S. and Japan. The visit demonstrates the shared common values and interests between Japan and the U.S., and emphasizes both nations’ commitment to the security of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.

USINDOPACOM protects and defends, in concert with other U.S. Government agencies, the territory of the United States, its people, and its interests. With allies and partners, USINDOPACOM is committed to enhancing stability in the Indo-Pacific region by promoting security cooperation, encouraging peaceful development, responding to contingencies, deterring aggression, and, when necessary, fighting to win.  This approach is based on partnership, presence, and military readiness.