Biden praises “excellent buddy” Kishida and states that the US is completely committed to Japan’s defence.

On Monday, President Joe Biden reminded Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida that the US is completely committed to Japan’s defense, despite simmering tensions with China and the fallout from c

The unveiling of an Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, a comprehensive plan providing an economic foundation for US engagement with Asia, will be the centerpiece of Biden’s two-day visit, which will include discussions with the presidents of Japan, India, and Australia in the “Quad” group.

“The U.S.-Japan alliance has long been the cornerstone of peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific, and the United States remains fully committed to Japan’s defense,” Biden said at the beginning of talks with Kishida at the Akasaka Palace in central Tokyo.

Under a clear blue sky, Biden was met by a military honour guard playing the national anthems of both countries.

Earlier, he met Emperor Naruhito, briefly speaking with him at the palace entrance before being led inside. According to the White House, Biden expressed greetings on behalf of the American people, underlining the strength of the US-Japan relationship, which is based on strong people-to-people relationships.

The two countries are anticipated to talk about Japan’s aspirations to increase its military capabilities and reach in response to China’s expanding might.

In the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the partners are likely to reaffirm their tight relations, stressing that unilateral changes to the status quo by force are unacceptable.

Concerns in Asia are growing over an increasingly aggressive China, particularly given its strong relations to Russia, and tensions are particularly high over self-ruled Taiwan, which China regards as a renegade province.

North Korea and regional concerns will also be discussed, with Biden slated to meet with relatives of Japanese abducted years ago to train spies in North Korea later that day.