Today, Secretary Carter met with Japan Defense Minister Gen Nakatani at the Pentagon. During the 60 minute meeting, the leaders discussed implementation plans of the newly released guidelines for U.S.-Japan defense cooperation, regional situations, the realignment of U.S. forces in Japan, and defense equipment and technology cooperation. This was Secretary Carter's second meeting with the defense minister.

Secretary Carter and Minister Nakatani emphasized the importance of keeping up the momentum from recent milestones to modernize the alliance, such as enhancing cyber and space security cooperation. The secretary thanked the Minister for Japan's continual support for the Futenma Replacement Facility in Okinawa as part of our realignment efforts.

The two leaders expressed their commitment to a strong working relationship and noted that they are looking forward to meeting soon at the upcoming Shangri-la Dialogue.