Notes from US' Trump, Japan's Abe joint press conference
US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held a joint press conference from the White House today, and here's a general summation of their respective statements.
Trump key highlights:
US will continue maximum pressure campaign on North Korea until de-nuclearization is implemented.
Reaffirms close cooperation, common defense with Japan.
Agrees to increase trade consultation with Japan's Abe, between the two countries.
Wants to do something about trade imbalance with Japan.
If US, Japan can come to an arrangement, would discuss retracting steel, aluminum tariffs.
Prefers bilateral trade deal with Japan, intends to keep negotiating a one-on-one trade deal with Japan.
If US can get along with China, with Russia, and with Japan, would be a good thing.
Japan Abe key highlights:
Maximum pressure on North Korea must be maintained.
Will expand trade, investment for the benefit of both nations.
Japan's investments in America have been gaining momentum.
Agrees to start talks with Trump on fair, free, reciprocal trade.
TPP is the best trade deal for both the US and Japan.
Japan will continue to negotiate for steel, aluminum exemptions as Japan does not exert any negative influence on US security.