Before a potential US presidential run, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis began an overseas trip in Tokyo on Monday and lauded Japan's efforts to strengthen its defenses.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, 44, visited Tokyo to bolster diplomatic connections and enhance his foreign policy qualifications, as he is expected to run for the GOP presidential nomination next year.
During his visit, he stressed the significance of Japan's commitment to enhancing its military capabilities for both the United States and Japan.
Ron DeSantis told Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during the 30-minute meeting that "We very much applaud your efforts to bolster your defenses." He also praised Tokyo's determination to change its security policy and boost military expenditure, according to Japan Today.
In light of North Korea and the emergence of the Chinese Communist Party, DeSantis said, "We understand it's a tough neighborhood out here." In addition, he remarked that a strong Japan and the United States are mutually beneficial.
Although the supposed objective of his visit is to promote economic prospects for Florida, his remarks seem to veer away from former US President Donald Trump's criticism of Japan's trade practices and military relationship with the US, according to The New York Times. DeSantis is still a potential contender for the presidency despite competing against Trump in the primaries.
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Japan Welcomes Ron DeSantis
According to Japan's Foreign Ministry, Prime Minister Kishida welcomed Ron DeSantis' on his first visit to Japan and expressed his hope that it would further solidify Japan's ties with Florida and the United States.
Ron DeSantis Japan visit also includes appointments with the foreign minister, Yoshimasa Hayashi, and business leaders during his two days in Tokyo. Additionally, he is anticipated to meet with British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. At a celebration honoring Israel's 75th anniversary, he is scheduled to give the keynote talk on April 27 in Israel.
South Korea, Israel, and the United Kingdom are also included in DeSantis' foreign trip, which was announced on Thursday. Ron DeSantis said that it aims to enhance business ties and highlight Florida's role as an economic leader, per ABC News.
Ron DeSantis Japan visit is joined by Florida state officials and his wife, Casey DeSantis.
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