TOKYO, 16 March, 2021 (TON): On Tuesday, the U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met the Japanese FM Toshimitsu Motegi in Tokyo.

On the visit they discussed the importance of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.

Blnken tweeted, "Pleasure to meet with my friend and Japanese counterpart, Motegi today. We're committed to deepening US-Japan coordination on global challenges and our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region."

“Had a great discussion with the Secretary of Defense, Motegi, and Japanese Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi on the importance of a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific anchored by universal values and uninhibited by coercive power," he added.

He further added, "We're committed to cooperation with Japan including as part of the Quad and trilaterally with South Korea."

Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin arrived in Tokyo on Monday evening, kicking-off a two-leg Asia, a tour that will also take them to South Korea.

Blinken said in a statement, "Their tireless work representing the US in Japan and promoting the interests and values of the American people is an invaluable asset to our country."

Sources said that before the meeting with Japanese officials, Blinken held a virtual discussion with the staff members of the U.S. embassy in Tokyo, and also the U.S. Secretary of State and Defense Secretary Austin Lloyd will visit South Korea after this visit.

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