Japanese, US leaders gear up for crucial talks on regional security and economic relations

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is set to visit the United States for a three-day trip starting on February 6.

During his visit, Ishiba is scheduled to meet with US President Donald Trump to discuss strengthening bilateral relations, Caliber.Az reports via Japanese media.

The talks are expected to focus on enhancing the alliance between Japan and the US, particularly in response to security challenges posed by North Korea and China. The two leaders are also likely to discuss ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific region, a priority for both nations.

Ishiba has expressed Japan's desire to address concerns regarding stable energy supplies. “There are things we would like to ask from the US regarding stable energy supplies,” Ishiba emphasized, calling this an especially critical time for Japan.

Japan had hoped for a meeting between Ishiba and Trump even before the US president's inauguration in November 2024 and January 2025. However, those meetings never took place, and Ishiba has been eager to meet Trump “as early as possible.”

One key issue that may come up during their discussions is the recent blockage of a significant $14.9 billion merger between Japanese steelmaker Nippon Steel and US Steel. The deal was blocked by Trump in December 2024, who voiced strong opposition to the acquisition, claiming it would harm US Steel. Nippon Steel had hoped to finalize the merger before Trump’s inauguration, but the deal was blocked by the Biden administration in January 2025. At the time, both companies criticized the move, with Japan’s Economy, Trade, and Industry Minister Muto Yoji calling the decision “incomprehensible and unfortunate.”

It remains unclear whether the blocked merger will be discussed during the meeting, but Ishiba had previously stated in an interview with Reuters that the move was "very disturbing" and could negatively impact US-Japan relations.

Some media outlets suggest that Ishiba may also raise the issue of increasing US shale gas imports to Japan. Trump has consistently advocated for US energy dominance and aims to increase domestic production while expanding the country’s share in global energy exports.

By Tamilla Hasanova