WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Adam Smith (D-WA) and Mike Rogers (R-AL), Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, released a statement detailing their support for Japan’s strengthened defense agenda.
"We strongly support the assertive steps that Japan is taking to enhance the U.S.-Japan Alliance – this is critical as we look to counter shared threats in the Indo-Pacific region. Our shared security requires new forms of cooperation, and we applaud Prime Minister Kishida for taking action to address the range of national security challenges the Indo-Pacific faces – particularly from the People’s Republic of China. Japan’s changes to their defense posture and increases to their defense budget will build on our shared vision of a future that is free, prosperous, and secure. The United States' partnership with Japan is critical to diplomatic and security policy in the Indo-Pacific, and our alliance is stronger than ever."
"We strongly support the assertive steps that Japan is taking to enhance the U.S.-Japan Alliance – this is critical as we look to counter shared threats in the Indo-Pacific region. Our shared security requires new forms of cooperation, and we applaud Prime Minister Kishida for taking action to address the range of national security challenges the Indo-Pacific faces – particularly from the People’s Republic of China. Japan’s changes to their defense posture and increases to their defense budget will build on our shared vision of a future that is free, prosperous, and secure. The United States' partnership with Japan is critical to diplomatic and security policy in the Indo-Pacific, and our alliance is stronger than ever."
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