"The World and Japan" Database (Project Leader: TANAKA Akihiko)
Database of Japanese Politics and International Relations
National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS); Institute for Advanced Studies on Asia (IASA), The University of Tokyo

[Title] JOINT STATEMENT OF THE SECURITY CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE ("2+2" Ministerial Meeting)

[Place]
[Date] December 19, 2014
[Source] Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
[Notes]
[Full text]

By

Minister for Foreign Affairs Kishida

Minister of Defense Eto

Secretary of State Kerry

Secretary of Defense Hagel

At the "2+2" Japan-U.S. Security Consultative Committee (SCC) meeting in Tokyo on October 3, 2013, the Ministers decided upon several steps to upgrade significantly the capability of the Japan-U.S. Alliance. The Ministers commend the ongoing progress in the revision of the Guidelines for Japan-U.S. Defense Cooperation as a core component of these steps. Based on the October 8, 2014, Interim Report, this work will not only ensure Japan's peace and security, but also make positive contributions to the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

The U.S. rebalance to the Asia-Pacific region and Japan's policy of "Proactive Contribution to Peace," based on the principle of international cooperation, both contribute to efforts by the Alliance to ensure a peaceful and prosperous Asia- Pacific region. Along these lines, the Government of the United States welcomes and supports efforts made by the Government of Japan in the security field, including the cabinet decision on July 1, 2014, for developing seamless security legislation.

Recognizing the significance of ensuring consistency between the revision of the Guidelines and Japan's legislative process and reconfirming the importance of ensuring the robust content of the revised Guidelines, the Ministers have decided to deepen the discussions further to work toward finalizing the revision of the Guidelines during the first half of next year, taking into account the progress of Japan's legislative process.

The Ministers affirm an unwavering mutual commitment to strengthen the Alliance further and to enhance deterrence in a complex regional and global security environment. The Japan-U.S. Alliance will continue to be the cornerstone of regional peace and security as well as a platform for global cooperation.

(End)