Readout of Vice President Biden’s Meeting with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan

Vice President Joe Biden met today in New York with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and reaffirmed the unwavering strength of the U.S.-Japan alliance. The leaders condemned North Korea's recent nuclear and missile tests and resolved to coordinate closely, including at the United Nations and with the Republic of Korea, in countering this threat. The Vice President reiterated the United States’ ironclad commitment to Japan’s security. Both leaders agreed to increase coordination on East China Sea and South China Sea issues. The leaders also shared views on the importance of building and sustaining an open, rules-based order in the Asia-Pacific region.