Japan, Germany to consult with each other to ensure regional peace, stability

Japan's Defense Minister Koizumi Shinjiro and his German counterpart Boris Pistorius have agreed that their countries will consult with each other to consider responses as necessary to ensure regional peace and stability.

Koizumi and Pistorius held talks at the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's Yokosuka base on Sunday. In a joint news conference after the meeting, Koizumi said it is difficult for just one nation to respond to rapid changes in the severe security environment. He said it is more important than ever for like-minded nations, such as Japan and Germany, to work closely together.