Japan, US defense chiefs agree to boost cybersecurity cooperation

Seoul emphasizes to the US congressional delegation importance of not reducing troop levels of US forces in South Korea on sidelines of Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore

By Saadet Gokce

ISTANBUL (AA) - The Japanese and American defense chiefs agreed Saturday to boost their cybersecurity cooperation on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, according to the Japanese Defense Ministry.

Gen. Nakatani and Pete Hegseth discussed a defense cooperation initiative and Tokyo's recently enacted Cyber Response Capability Strengthening Act which allows the government to monitor online communications.

"The Ministers confirmed that they will coordinate closely together to align the strategic priorities of both countries as the US formulates new National Defense Strategy," it said.

South Korean Deputy Defense Minister for Policy Cho Chang-rae emphasized to the US congressional delegation the importance of not reducing the troop level of US forces in his country on the sidelines of the key annual defense and security forum, according to the Seoul-based Yonhap News.

About 28,500 US troops are stationed in South Korea.

The remarks come amid reports of possible US troop withdrawals from South Korea, which the Pentagon has denied.

Kaynak: