On October 9th 2026, Defense Minister Koizumi Shinjiro received a courtesy call from Admiral Paparo, Commander, U.S. Pacific Command. Minister Koizumi welcomed Admiral Paparo, and they confirmed their commitment to making every effort to further strengthen the Japan-U.S. Alliance and to maintain peace and stability in the region. In addition, with regard to the robbery-murder case that occurred in Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture, he strongly protested the incident, and strongly urged the U.S. side to provide full cooperation with the investigation, enforce strict discipline among U.S. military personnel, and take thorough measures to prevent the recurrence of incidents and accidents, and ensure appropriate consideration is given to the bereaved family of the victim. They also confirmed their commitment to continue working closely together.
Courtesy call on Defense Minister Koizumi by Admiral Paparo, Commander, U.S. Pacific Command
