WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – President Joe Biden welcomed Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to the White House on Wednesday.
“President Eisenhower said his goal was to establish an indestructible partnership between our countries,” Biden said. “Today, the world can see that goal has been achieved.”
“The cooperation between our countries bound together by common values and commitment has become a global one with the scope and depth covering outer space and the deep sea,” Kishida said. “Today the world faces more challenges and difficulties than ever before. Japan will join hands with our American friends and together we will lead the way in tackling the challenges of Indo-Pacific region and the world, while tirelessly developing the relationship.”
Kishida announced that Japan is giving 250 cherry trees to the U.S. to mark America’s coming 250th birthday in 2026.
The leaders held an Oval Office conversation and a joint press conference before a formal dinner, which will include a post-meal performance by singer-songwriter Paul Simon, a favorite of both Kishida and first lady Jill Biden.
Kishida will remain in Washington to take part in a U.S.-Japan-Philippines summit Thursday.
“And I would assert our alliance has never been stronger in our entire history,” Biden said.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.