Japan’s new Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken have agreed to further strengthen the bilateral alliance to realize a free and open Indo-Pacific, according to NHK World-Japan.

During their telephone talks on Saturday morning, Japan time, Hayashi expressed his hope to build a good relationship with Blinken, just as his predecessor Motegi Toshimitsu did.

The US secretary offered his congratulations to Hayashi on becoming foreign minister. Hayashi assumed the post earlier this week, when Prime Minister Kishida Fumio launched his second Cabinet.

Hayashi and Blinken reaffirmed that they will work closely in responding to global issues, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change.

The diplomats shared the view that their nations will coordinate closely toward the complete denuclearization of North Korea.

Hayashi asked for continued understanding and cooperation on the issue of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea decades ago. Blinken offered his support.

The officials agreed to arrange a visit to the US by Prime Minister Kishida as early as possible.

Source: Azerbaijan State News Agency