Newly appointed Japan Defense Minister visits U.S. Facilities in Okinawa

OKINAWA, Japan -- U.S. Forces Japan (USFJ) and the III Marine Expeditionary Force (III MEF) hosted newly appointed Japan Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi today in Okinawa for briefings and an orientation. Lieutenant General H. Stacy Clardy, III MEF Commander, appreciated the opportunity to discuss the strategically critical role U.S. and Japanese forces play in the region.

The orientation began with a visit to Camp Schwab. During his visit, Minister Kishi received a briefing from the Okinawa Defense Bureau on the Futenma Replacement Facility, highlighting the close partnership between U.S. and Japanese personnel.

After his arrival at Camp Foster, the Minister conducted an office call with Lt. Gen. Clardy and received command briefs. During the briefings, the two leaders stressed the importance of the Alliance and discussed common threats to regional peace and security. They also discussed a number of training and operational issues in Okinawa, emphasizing the importance of realistic training to enable bilateral readiness and credible deterrence.

Following the meetings and orientation, U.S. Marine leaders expressed their appreciation for the Minister’s visit, as well as his strong support for the Alliance and the U.S. personnel defending Japan’s security. They also expressed their appreciation for the continued support and hospitality they enjoy from the people in Okinawa.