Japan, Us Condemn Gunshots By Myanmar Officers
The foreign affairs chiefs of Japan and the United States have denounced the recent shooting of protesters in Myanmar.
Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu spoke with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken over the telephone on Wednesday.
Their condemnation came in response to gunshots fired by security officers at protesters who oppose the coup in Myanmar's capital, Naypyitaw.
They agreed to call on Myanmar authorities to immediately stop violent actions against civilians. They also agreed to urge Myanmar's military to release detained officials, including State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, and restore the democratic political system as soon as possible.
The two confirmed that Japan and the US will continue to closely work together over the situation in Myanmar.
They also discussed China, which is stepping up its maritime activity. They shared concerns about the country's unilateral attempt to change the status quo in the East China Sea, including enforcement of a law that allows the country's coast guard to use weapons.
Motegi and Blinken also confirmed that Japan and the US, plus Australia and India, will steadily strengthen cooperation to realize a free and open Indo-Pacific based on the rule of law.