Japan, US FMs agree to strengthen ties

TOKYO, Oct 7 (KUNA) -- Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken agreed on Thursday to further strengthen the Japan-US alliance and closely work together to realize a "free and open Indo-Pacific," Japan's Foreign Ministry said.
The Foreign Ministry stated in a press release that Motegi and Blinken also exchanged views in a 15-minute phone call on a broad range of issues such as regional affairs including North Korea and China, as well as cooperation on climate change.
Motegi added that the importance of the Japan-US alliance remains unaffected under the Cabinet of new Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and hoping that their close coordination with Blinken continues. (end) mk.ahm