## Japan and the United States to Strengthen Cooperation in Advanced Technology
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and U.S. President Joe Biden are set to meet in Washington on April 10, 2023, to discuss strengthening cooperation in advanced technology. The two leaders are expected to issue a joint statement outlining their commitment to working more closely together in areas such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and bio-research.
The statement will emphasize the importance of the bilateral relationship as a "global partnership" and highlight the two nations' roles as global leaders in these fields. They will also discuss the establishment of a framework for AI research and development in collaboration with leading companies and universities from both countries.
In addition to advanced technology, the leaders will also address energy and climate change issues. They are expected to focus on offshore wind power generation, an area where Japan has significant potential due to its vast coastline. Japan will participate in technological development projects led by the U.S. Energy Department, aiming to reduce costs and promote the adoption of new energy sources.
Defense cooperation will also be on the agenda. Kishida and Biden will discuss strengthening command and control coordination between the Self-Defense Forces and the U.S. military. They will also explore the possibility of allowing Japanese companies to handle major repair work for ships in the U.S. Navy's Seventh Fleet.
The joint statement will also address China's actions in the East and South China Seas, which the two leaders view as contrary to international law. They will reiterate the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
Following his meeting with Biden, Kishida will visit a Toyota Motor Corp. facility in North Carolina where the company plans to build a fuel cell factory for electric vehicles. This visit is seen as a gesture of Japan's commitment to creating jobs in the United States.
While the Kishida administration seeks to strengthen ties with the current Biden administration, it also recognizes the possibility of former President Donald Trump returning to office in the November election. The visit to the Toyota facility is intended to demonstrate Japan's willingness to cooperate with either administration.