Japanese and US officials have held talks on the US military's extended deterrence capabilities to safeguard Japan, including nuclear and conventional weapons. They confirmed efforts to enhance capabilities to deal with challenges to the regional security environment.
A working-level Extended Deterrence Dialogue was held at an air force base in the western US state of Wyoming on Thursday and Friday. Foreign affairs and defense officials from both sides attended.
The officials discussed issues including North Korea's nuclear and missile development programs and its growing military cooperation with Russia, as well as China's accelerating build-up of its nuclear arsenal.
The officials confirmed that Japan and the US will bolster joint deterrence capabilities through information sharing and joint exercises.
They also agreed to deepen cooperation in diplomatic and other fields to deter the use of nuclear weapons.
During their visit, the officials visited a facility on the base where training is conducted on intercontinental ballistic missile launch procedures.