We welcome the Government of Japan’s announcement today that it will transfer Patriot interceptor missiles to the United States to replenish U.S. inventories.  This decision will contribute to the security of Japan and to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region by ensuring that U.S. forces, in close cooperation with the Japan Self-Defense Forces, will continue to maintain a credible deterrence and response capability.  President Biden strongly appreciates and supports the leadership role played by Japan under Prime Minister Kishida, and we will continue to work closely with our Japanese Allies to promote peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.