Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi is set to meet with South Korean Defence Minister Ahn Gyu Back in Yokosuka on Friday, as reported by local media. The meeting aims to strengthen personal ties between the two officials and emphasize the importance of bilateral cooperation in addressing threats from North Korea’s missile and nuclear programs. The talks will take place at the Yokosuka base of Japan’s Maritime Self-Defence Force.
On Tuesday, Japan lodged a strong protest following North Korea’s launch of two ballistic missiles towards the Sea of Japan. The missiles, one of which reached an altitude of about 80 kilometers and traveled approximately 350 kilometers, were reportedly launched from a region in northern Pyongyang. Fortunately, the missiles fell outside Japan’s Exclusive Economic Zone, according to a Japanese government official cited by Kyodo News.
In response to the missile launch, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi instructed relevant government officials to ensure the safety of vessels and aircraft. Expressing condemnation for North Korea’s actions, Takaichi emphasized the importance of collecting information regarding the incident. Despite the launch, no damages have been reported so far.
During a recent visit to Japan, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung highlighted the significance of cooperation between the two nations in the current complex international landscape. Lee stressed the importance of mutual ties that have been developed over the past six decades since the normalization of relations. He expressed optimism for further strengthening the relationship in the coming years, with a focus on regional stability.
