Discussion of security issues in tariff talks not appropriate: Japan's PM

Ishiba pledges to review automobile regulations to move forward negotiations with U.S.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba reacts as he speaks to reporters after a Japanese negotiator held ministerial talks at the White House regarding U.S. tariffs, at the prime minister’s official residence in Tokyo on April 17. © Reuters

April 20, 2025 17:50 JST

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said Sunday that his government will not include discussions on security in its trade talks with the U.S., while President Donald Trump has called for reducing the U.S. burden in defending Japan.

"I don't think it is appropriate to discuss security and trade together. We should address security issues without linking them to tariffs," Ishiba said on a TV program, days after his close aide met with Trump and senior U.S. officials on the recently increased levies.