Interview summary:
What was your impression of Japanese culture during this visit?
What impressed me most was the kindness and hospitality of the Japanese people. No matter where I went or whom I met, they extended great kindness to me. It was also a moving experience to see places and items of a cultural nature that go back a thousand years or more. In my visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, I could not help but feel moved by and mourn the loss of life.
How were your dialogs with Japanese security experts?
I think they are very excited about the New Defense Guidelines. The opportunity to secure the common values that our two countries have shared by better cooperation is something that everyone is supportive of and anxious to make progress. Mutual support between Japan and the United States is something that works in the service of peace and stability throughout the region.
What are the main points of discussion about the Japan-U.S. alliance?
The New Guidelines are a product of changing security environment that is becoming more worrisome. The opportunity that the Guidelines give us to cooperate offers the possibility of establishing a new strategy to help preserve the Asia Pacific region's peace and stability, whose foundation was formed by Japan and the United States. Close cooperation between Japan and the United States will have a positive impact on other countries in the region who have common interest.
What about international contributions of the Japanese government and Self Defense Forces?
It would be best to begin strengthening defense at home. Then, Japan can make choices based on individual circumstances with commitment.
