Secretary Clinton Visits Japan

U.S. Chamber of Commerce President Tom Donohue, Secretary Clinton, Foreign Minister Matsumoto, and Keidanren Chairman Yonekura

April 17 - During her stay in Japan on April 17, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton met with Prime Minister Kan and Foreign Minister Matsumoto, and also visited the Emperor and Empress. Secretary Clinton expressed her condolences for the suffering Japan has faced in the wake of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami and the resulting nuclear situation, and she reiterated the enduring U.S. commitment to Japan as the reconstruction and recovery process goes forward.

In a joint press availability with Foreign Minister Matsumoto, Secretary Clinton said, "I am honored to be back in Japan. I wish to convey in person to the Japanese people my country's admiration for your strength in the face of this multi-dimensional crisis of unprecedented scope. We pledge once again our steadfast support for you and for your future recovery. We are very confident that Japan will demonstrate the resilience that we have seen during this crisis in the months ahead as you resume the very strong position that you hold in the world today."

Secretary Clinton, together with the Foreign Minister, announced the creation of a public-private partnership for reconstruction, which will enhance cooperation between Japanese and American businesses and between civil society groups and public officials.

The Secretary also traveled to the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo, where she addressed employees and family members. In her remarks, Secretary Clinton said, "Thank you for working day and night to care for U.S. citizens in the midst of this crisis. Thank you for coordinating a massive mobilization of assistance for one of our closest allies at their time of greatest need. Thank you for being the face of America at our best."