(Provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only)
I will speak about the Japan-Sweden Defense Ministers’ Meeting. Earlier, I held a Defense Ministerial Meeting with Minister for Defence Jonson. At the outset, I conveyed my appreciation to Minister Jonson for his hosting the visit. Then we exchanged views on regional affairs. Defense Minister Jonson explained about the situation in Europe and the policy of Sweden, and I stated that Japan supports Sweden’s recent major strategic decision, given that Sweden formally joined NATO in March this year. Following that, we held a discussion on defense cooperation and exchanges, and concurred that we will further promote defense cooperation and exchanges, including high-level exchanges, defense equipment and technology cooperation, and cooperation through NATO. I intend to continue to work closely with Defense Minister Jonson to promote bilateral defense cooperation and exchanges.