In light of North Korea’s sixth nuclear test, Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera held a 20-minute teleconference with his South Korean counterpart Song Young-moo on Sept. 6. Onodera stated: “It is necessary to apply stronger pressure to draw out concrete actions toward denuclearization.” Song responded with: “We will respond firmly in conjunction with the international community.”

The two ministers agreed on trilateral cooperation with the U.S. in sharing information on developments in North Korea. After the meeting, Onodera told reporters that “Japan, the U.S., and the ROK will be in close contact.”

The three countries also held a videoconference of bureau chief-level defense officials, during which they agreed on strengthening operational cooperation with regard to troops and equipment. (Abridged)