(Provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only)
Today, here in Hawaii, I was able to reflect on the history of Japan-U.S. relations and to feel the strength of the Japan-U.S. Alliance, which has embodied the power of reconciliation. In the morning, I held a meeting with Adm. Paparo, Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), and visited core facilities of INDOPACOM. I gained firsthand insights into the security situation in the Indo-Pacific region. Following this visit, together with Commander Paparo and others, I laid wreaths at the USS Arizona Memorial and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. We were able to demonstrate once again that our two countries, which were once embroiled in the flames of war, are now bound together by strong friendship and ties. Furthermore, I attended the Honolulu Defense Forum, which was a first by a Japanese Defense Minister. In my keynote speech, I underscored that when three strengths—a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” (FOIP), the Japan-U.S. Alliance, and the U.S.’s Peace through Strength—come together, peace and prosperity in the region will become even more secure. I further emphasized Japan’s resolve to further play a leading role in promoting the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific as countries in the region face common challenges. Tomorrow, in Los Angeles, I will visit a company and also attend a reception to commemorate the 15th anniversary of Operation Tomodachi and to commemorate the anniversary of the Self-Defense Forces. I will be recalling once again how Japan and the U.S. worked together in response to Japan’s national crisis, the Great East Japan Earthquake. At the same time, at this reception, I, from the Ministry of Defense, joined by Japanese defense-related companies, intend to act as the leading salesperson, promoting Japan’s defense industry to the U.S. Government, military, and companies. That concludes my opening remarks.