The two leaders had a working lunch and a joint news conference. At the joint press conference, President Trump said the two countries share a wonderful friendship, built on mutual respect, historical, trade, and cultural ties. He emphasized that military cooperation is one of the key pillars of the US-Japan alliance.

Prime Minister Ishiba reaffirmed his commitment to promoting the interests of both nations and achieving peace and prosperity in the region by strengthening the US-Japan alliance, enhancing deterrence capabilities, and working closely to address current challenges.

The two sides reaffirmed their cooperation in countering China’s influence. They also discussed their shared security concerns about North Korea, and Trump said he would work to reestablish a relationship with that country’s leader Kim Jong Un.

The two sides issued a joint statement that serves as a foundation and direction for deeper US-Japan cooperation.