Press Release

U.S. Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific, today issued the following statement regarding the outcomes of the United States-Japan summit:

"I extend my congratulations to President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for their successful summit, which has resulted in over 70 agreements. This achievement underscores the strength of our alliance and lays a solid foundation for sustained cooperation in the years ahead.

"As the Ranking Member of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific, I applaud the announcement that AUKUS partners -- the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom -- are considering cooperation with Japan on Pillar II, which focuses on developing shared advanced capabilities. Japan is the first country to be formally considered to join Pillar II, highlighting the evolution of our bilateral alliance into a global partnership that advances a more peaceful and prosperous world. 

"I also applaud the launch of a groundbreaking over $100 million partnership in AI research between U.S. and Japanese universities. Supported by corporations in both countries, this partnership signals a critical step forward in the realms of technology and innovation.

"Additionally, the agreement to pursue joint lunar exploration signifies an historic milestone in U.S.-Japan relations, with the shared ambition of sending the first Japanese astronaut to the Moon.

"I look forward to Prime Minister Kishida's address to Congress, which will reaffirm our mutual commitment to strengthening our alliance in pursuit of peace, prosperity, and security in the Indo-Pacific and beyond."