Thursday, April 11, 2024

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida urges US to keep playing "pivotal" role on global stage

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida says "freedom and democracy are under threat around the globe," warning that "Ukraine today could be East Asia tomorrow."


In a warmly received address — the first to a joint session of the US Congress by a Japanese leader in almost a decade — Mr Kishida reaffirmed his country's deepening relationship with the United States, urging the superpower to continue playing a "pivotal role" on the world stage.


His speech follows his visit yesterday to the White House and came shortly before an unprecedented trilateral meeting alongside President Joe Biden and President Marcos of the Philippines, where the three men pledged to bolster economic and defence ties in the face of growing Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific region.


From Washington, Benji Hyer reports. 


IN: Fumio Kishida 

OUT: Benji Hyer, Washington 

DUR: 64 secs wrap

 

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