Aug 19 (NHK) - Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and new US Ambassador to Japan William Hagerty have agreed to strengthen ties amid rising tensions with North Korea.
The two met on Friday at the Prime Minister's office. The new ambassador had arrived in Tokyo the previous day.
Abe welcomed Hagerty's appointment, saying he is glad to have as US ambassador someone closely trusted by President Donald Trump.
Abe referred to the "2-plus-2" talks by the foreign affairs and defense ministers from both countries held on Thursday in Washington. Abe said they had a constructive dialogue.
The prime minister added that he hopes to closely cooperate with the ambassador on strengthening the bilateral alliance.
Source: ANNnewsCH