South OC Times

Washington – On April 11, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida delivered an address to a joint meeting of Congress. Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48), a senior Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, hosted Dr. Kevin Roberts, President of The Heritage Foundation, as his guest. Following the speech, Rep. Issa and Dr. Roberts expressed their views on the U.S.-Japan alliance.

Issa praised the partnership between the United States and Japan, emphasizing its importance in maintaining peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region. He highlighted the challenges posed by the Chinese Communist Party and the need for a strong alliance to counter them. Issa also acknowledged Dr. Roberts' contribution, stating, “I thank Dr. Roberts for his continued friendship and his exceptional leadership in the arena of ideas, the formation of policies that work, and the development of conservative solutions to the challenges of our nation and our world.”

Dr. Roberts reflected on the transformation of Japan from a former enemy to a key ally of the United States. He commended Japan for actively strengthening its defenses in the face of the shared threat from the People’s Republic of China. Roberts recognized Prime Minister Kishida's address to Congress as a significant moment in history, reaffirming the enduring friendship between the two nations and highlighting Japan's vital role in promoting values of freedom, prosperity, and security.

The statements from Rep. Issa and Dr. Roberts underscore the deepening U.S.-Japan alliance and the mutual commitment to confronting common challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.