2023.05.01
From April 24 to 28, Vice Minister of Defense Mr. Suzuki visited the U.S. (Washington, D.C.). The summary is as follows.
1．Meeting with Dr. Kathleen Hicks, Deputy Secretary of Defense
Vice Minister Suzuki met with Dr. Hicks, Deputy Secretary of Defense at the Department of Defense.
In the meeting, they exchanged their views on both countries’ strategies and investments in defense capabilities, and confirmed to work together towards modernizing the Japan-U.S. Alliance.
2．Meeting with Dr. Colin Kahl, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy
Vice Minister Suzuki met with Dr. Kahl, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy at the Department of Defense.
In the meeting, they confirmed that both sides will work together towards strengthening the Japan-U.S. Alliance capabilities to deter and respond based on the Japan-U.S. “2+2” and Defense Ministerial Meeting held in January this year.
3．Meeting with Ambassador Victoria Nuland, Under Secretary for Political Affairs
Vice Minister Suzuki met with Ambassador Victoria Nuland, Under Secretary for Political Affairs at the Department of State.
In the meeting, they exchanged their views on the regional situation and confirmed to work together towards further strengthening the Japan-U.S. Alliance.
4．Lecture at Georgetown University
Vice Minister Suzuki held a lecture at Georgetown University.
VM Suzuki explained the background behind Japan’s new strategic documents as well as the importance of the Japan-U.S. Alliance, reinforcement of the defense industrial base, and intelligence capabilities. He also gave a message to Georgetown students towards their future.
