Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is currently on a visit to North Carolina, after engaging in security discussions with President Joe Biden in Washington, D.C. This visit highlights the economic ties between Japan and North Carolina, where Japanese companies are significant investors. Kishida’s schedule includes stops at major Japanese firms in the state, such as Toyota Motor Corp. and Honda Aircraft Co. His trip emphasizes the importance of Japan-U.S. relations beyond national capitals, marking the first visit by a foreign head of state to North Carolina’s governor’s mansion in over a century.

During his U.S. visit, Kishida met with President Biden to discuss various global security issues, with a particular focus on China’s regional actions and the importance of U.S. involvement in Indo-Pacific security. This strategic dialogue underlined the strength of the Japan-U.S. partnership.

Separately, during their meeting at the White House, President Biden’s physical demeanor and body language came under scrutiny. Noted body language expert Judi James described Biden as appearing somewhat disoriented, which raised some concerns about his capacities. This observation follows mixed reviews of Biden’s leadership in recent public appearances. Despite these critiques, President Biden reiterated the robust and effective nature of the U.S.-Japan relationship during his public interactions with Prime Minister Kishida.