Japan, NATO sign joint declaration for stronger ties

Japan and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Monday released their first joint political declaration, which provides a framework for the further development of the relationship between the two sides. The declaration was signed by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and visiting NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen. In the document, Japan and NATO spell out their shared strategic interests in promoting global peace, stability and prosperity, through pursuing a rules-based international order that promotes peaceful settlements of disputes. It also indicates areas where cooperation can be increased, such as closer coordination in managing crisis situations and intensifying cooperation to jointly handle challenges such as disaster relief, terrorism, piracy and cyber attacks. "The declaration highlights that the relationship between NATO and Japan is based on joint values and the common security challenges faced by both," Rasmussen said after signing the document. "While NATO has no ambition to take on a permanent role in Asia, we see very clearly the advantage of working with like-minded partners like Japan," he said. "The signing of the declaration also reflected Prime Minister Abe's personal commitment to a strong relationship with NATO," he added. Rasmussen is on a three-day visit to Japan. During their talks, Abe and Rasmussen discussed North Korea amid speculation that Pyongyang is prepared to fire off missiles. The NATO chief also expressed appreciation for Japan's contribution in Afghanistan, seeking Japan to continue its support there after 2014. In a press conference at the Japan National Press Club earlier in the day, the Secretary General stressed the value of closer cooperation with Japan, closer links with the Asia-Pacific region and global partnerships. He also said that an even deeper and broader relationship between NATO and Japan, built on their long-standing partnership, can help make the world a safer place.