US Prez Obama, Japan`s PM Shinzo Abe discuss North Korea

Washington: US President Barack Obama and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe pledged to work together to garner the international community against the nuclear tests carried out by North Korea early this week.

The two leaders spoke over the phone yesterday to discuss North Korea`s nuclear test and to consult on steps to respond to this highly provocative violation of its international obligations. "They pledged to work closely together to seek significant action at the United Nations Security Council and to cooperate on measures aimed at impeding North Korea`s nuclear and ballistic missile programs," the White House said in a press statement. During the call, Obama reaffirmed that the US remains steadfast in its defense commitments to Japan, including the extended deterrence offered by the US nuclear umbrella. "The President indicated that he looked forward to in-depth discussions when the Prime Minister visits Washington later this month," the White House said. PTI