SINGAPORE, May 31, 2026 (News On Japan) –
Defense Minister Shinji Koizumi met with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on May thirtieth whereas visiting Singapore for the Asian safety discussion board referred to as the Shangri-La Dialogue, as the 2 sides mentioned methods to additional strengthen the Japan-U.S. alliance and broaden protection cooperation.
At the beginning of the assembly, Hegseth welcomed the chance to debate Japan’s efforts to boost its protection capabilities and emphasised the significance of real looking navy coaching.
“I look forward to discussing the initiatives Japan is undertaking, just as we are, to strengthen defense capabilities,” Hegseth stated. “I also hope we can explore ways to further strengthen our cooperation by discussing the importance of realistic training.”
Koizumi responded with a private comment, noting that Hegseth’s birthday falls on June sixth.
“I understand that next week, on June 6th, is Pete’s birthday. Happy birthday,” Koizumi stated.
Before departing for Singapore, Koizumi stated on May twenty eighth that he supposed to carry discussions aimed toward making the Japan-U.S. alliance even stronger. He is predicted to supply particulars of the outcomes of the talks later.
Earlier on May thirtieth, Koizumi additionally met with the protection ministers of Australia and New Zealand. Australia lately agreed to collectively develop a brand new naval vessel based mostly on the Maritime Self-Defense Force’s Mogami-class frigate, whereas New Zealand has expressed curiosity in buying the upgraded model of the vessel.
Koizumi stated he defined that if New Zealand had been to pick out the improved Mogami-class frigate, it might enhance interoperability and compatibility among the many three nations and contribute considerably to regional peace and stability.
Separately, Koizumi met with British Defense Secretary John Healey, the place the 2 sides confirmed shut cooperation on a spread of safety initiatives, together with the trilateral next-generation fighter jet improvement program involving Japan, the United Kingdom and Italy.
The sequence of conferences underscored Japan’s efforts to deepen protection ties with key companions as safety challenges proceed to develop throughout the Indo-Pacific area and past.