First Japan - Us '2 - Plus - 2' Economic Meeting May Be Held In Washington Late July
NHK has learned that the Japanese and US governments are arranging to hold the first meeting of their foreign affairs and economic chiefs in Washington in late July under a new "two-plus-two" framework.
In January, Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio and US President Joe Biden agreed to launch two-plus-two economic talks. The two countries' officials are seeking to hold the first meeting in the US capital on July 29, among other plans.
Participants will be Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa and Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Hagiuda Koichi from Japan and Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo from the US.
The officials are expected to discuss cooperation in a range of areas. Main topics will likely be research and development of cutting-edge technologies, including semiconductors, measures dealing with climate change and economic security.
The Japanese government wants to further step up economic cooperation with the US for a free and open Indo-Pacific region as China has been increasing its hegemonic behavior.