(Provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only)
Today, I visited the Yokosuka District of the Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) and Fleet Activities, Yokosuka of the U.S. Navy in Japan. Yokosuka hosts many of MSDF’s main units and command centers, as well as the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s core 7th Fleet. The visit confirmed that this area is truly key to the defense of Japan, and is a critically important district and plays a crucial role in the peace and security of the region. During this visit, I observed up close the personnel at the front lines carrying out their duties diligently with a very strong sense of urgency. Notably, the equipment has become highly modernized, and their capabilities have improved. I felt a lot of pride watching the personnel skillfully operate such equipment. In addition, it renewed the need to create an environment where personnel can adapt to these changes, accomplish their duties, and work with pride and honor. Furthermore, I participated in a welcome ceremony for the arrival of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy Joint Training Task Group. This is the first port call in Japan by an ROK training fleet in six years. I sincerely welcome this port call, which will contribute to strengthening Japan-ROK defense cooperation and exchanges. As the security environment surrounding the region becomes increasingly severe, Japan will continue to strengthen defense cooperation and exchanges in various fields with the U.S., with the U.S. and ROK, and with the ROK.