US, Japan military chiefs vow defense cooperation

Gen. Martin Dempsey, chairman of the U.S. joint chiefs of staff, met with Japan's defense minister and chief of joint staff Friday.

 

Dempsey, who is wrapping up weeklong visit to Asia that included South Korea and China, reaffirmed Washington's commitment to the U.S.-Japan alliance.

 

"Tensions are high in the region, I know you're well aware of that but we're working very closely," Dempsey said. "And even with tensions high, I believe personally there are also opportunities that come of that for greater cooperation, greater integration, interoperability and we're eager to take advantage of those opportunities."