Full text of Japanese Prime Minister Kishida's speech to U.S. Congress
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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida delivered a speech at the U.S. Congress, emphasizing Japan's role as a global partner. Kishida expressed gratitude for the warm welcome he received during his time in the United States and highlighted the strong bond between Japan and the U.S. He discussed the challenges facing the international order, including threats to freedom and democracy, climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Kishida also addressed the strategic challenge posed by China and the importance of upholding a free and open international order. He emphasized the need for close coordination between Japan and the U.S. to ensure credible and resilient deterrence. Kishida mentioned the issue of nuclear weapons proliferation in East Asia, particularly North Korea's nuclear and missile program. He also expressed concern about Russia's aggression against Ukraine and the threat of nuclear weapons use. Kishida highlighted the growing cases of oppression through digital technologies and economic coercion. He called for the safeguarding of common values and emphasized Japan's commitment to freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. Kishida expressed Japan's support for the U.S. leadership and its belief in the U.S. economy. He discussed Japan's transformation as a global partner and its efforts to strengthen the bilateral alliance with the U.S. Kishida mentioned Japan's increased defense budget, counterstrike capabilities, and cybersecurity improvements. He also highlighted Japan's sanctions against Russia and its aid to Ukraine. Kishida emphasized the importance of multilateral cooperation, including trilateral and quadrilateral partnerships, to realize a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. He mentioned Japan's economic initiatives and its commitment to leading the world in emerging technologies. Kishida concluded by reaffirming Japan's role as the United States' closest ally and its commitment to peace, freedom, and prosperity.

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