Prime Minister Koizumi's Trip to Pyongyang

The United States Government appreciates the prior notification by and consultation with the Japanese Government on Prime Minister Koizumi's plans to visit Pyongyang, North Korea, on May 22. As a matter of policy, the United States Government has consistently supported the efforts by the Japanese Government to gain the release of its citizens abducted by North Korea, and of their family members. The United States understands that the Prime Minister's visit is in connection with this ongoing effort, and we support it. The U.S. and the Government of Japan (GOJ) coordinate and cooperate closely on our respective approaches to North Korea, including on the abductions issue, the nuclear issue, and other challenges before us with respect to North Korea. This coordination continues with respect to the Prime Minister’s upcoming visit to Pyongyang.

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