May 02, 2019

Castro, Smith, Engel, McCaul, Sherman, Yoho Joint Statement on Introduction of Bipartisan U.S. -Japan Resolution

Resolution Reaffirms the Vital Role of the U.S. -Japan Alliance in Promoting Peace, Stability and Prosperity in the Indo-Pacific Region and Beyond

WASHINGTON—Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Co-Chair of the U.S. -Japan Caucus, Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Vice Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and a member of the House Intelligence and Education and Labor Committees, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03), Co-Chair of the U.S. -Japan Caucus, Congressman Eliot Engel (NY-16), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-30), the Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia, and Congressman Ted Yoho (FL-03), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, and Nonproliferation, today introduced the bipartisan U.S. -Japan Resolution (H. Res. 349):

“As Japan embarks on a new chapter in its robust history, this moment marks an important occasion to reaffirm the vital role of the U.S.-Japan alliance, and our mutual commitment to the common values of freedom, democracy and prosperity for over 70 years,” said Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20). “Our two countries have created a long-established, dynamic relationship. The introduction of this resolution will only strengthen and broaden the active diplomatic and economic ties between our two countries. I congratulate Emperor Naruhito on his new role, look forward to the bright future our alliance holds, and the key role it plays in global peace and stability.”

“The ascension of Emperor Naruhito provides an important opportunity to reflect on the successes and bright future of the U.S.-Japan Alliance,” said Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03). “I congratulate the Japanese people on the beginning of this new era, and look forward to building on our decades of partnership by further strengthening our ties and ensuring the safety and prosperity of both nations.”

"I congratulate the people of Japan on this auspicious occasion and wish Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako every success in their new roles. I look forward to continuing to deepen and strengthen the U.S.-Japan alliance in this new era,” said Congressman Eliot Engel (NY-16). “Japan is an indispensable partner to the United States, and Japan's role in the world has been made stronger by the decades of service and legacy of peace and compassion of Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko."

 “The alliance between the United States and Japan is unshakeable because it is built on principles that have strengthened over generations. Among our many common values, we share a commitment to democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and global security,” said Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10). “U.S. and Japan follow a Free and Open Indo-Pacific strategy—a positive vision for Asia that offers a better path than authoritarianism, predatory economics and geopolitical competition. The future of U.S.-Japan relations is bright. As Japan celebrates the historic beginning of the Reiwa era, I am proud to offer my enduring commitment to work with our Japanese partners in pursuing joint opportunities and addressing our shared challenges.”

“Japan and the United States are united by common values and interests,” said Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-30). “In this new era, I look forward to Japan playing a more active role in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.”

“Japan’s importance as a democratic and economic ally cannot be understated. For more than seventy years, the shared values of the U.S.-Japan alliance have advanced peace and economic development in the Indo-Pacific and around the world,” said Congressman Ted Yoho (FL-03). “With uncertainty arising around the world, this alliance is more important than ever before. As Japan begins its new era of ‘beautiful harmony’ we look forward to a friendship that will only continue to grow stronger.”

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