The 50th Anniversary of the U.S.-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security

Released: January 19, 2010 (U.S. Embassy Tokyo website)

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton
Video Message

Today we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security between the United States and Japan. This anniversary marks the beginning of what President Eisenhower described as an indestructible partnership based on equality and mutual understanding. This alliance is not only enduring but remains even more essential to addressing the challenges and seizing the opportunities of the 21st Century. So much so that Japan was the first country I visited as Secretary of State.

Our partnership has played a critical role in the security of our countries and in the maintenance of international peace. Although the world has changed greatly over the past 50 years, this alliance is no less critical today than it was in 1960. The U.S. and Japan face a multitude of common threats and challenges. By relying on the strength of our alliance and working together, we are in a better position to overcome these challenges and to advance progress for our people.

Our partnership has endured for half a century precisely because of our mutual respects and interests. A growing and prosperous Japan, with the stability of our alliance, is in both of our nations’ vital interests.

The United States is committed to strengthening this partnership as we embark on this new century. I am confident that our alliance will adapt, thrive, and be even stronger in the years and decades ahead. So thank you for working hard every day on behalf of this very important relationship.