Photo/Illutration Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba fields questions from reporters at the prime minister’s office after U.S. President Donald Trump announced an agreement on tariff negotiations with Japan on July 23. (Takeshi Iwashita)

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba touted the Japan-U.S. tariff agreement, emphasizing the achievement reached after long negotiations, and pledging to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump if needed.

Regarding the 15 percent tariffs on automobiles and reciprocal tariffs, Ishiba told reporters on July 23, “This is the lowest figure to date among countries with trade surpluses with the United States.”

He also noted that the Japanese side did not lower tariffs on agricultural and other products imported from the United States.

“This is the result of our consistent advocacy and strong efforts to reach out to the United States,” he said.

As for whether he would meet with Trump in the future, the prime minister said, “If necessary, we will have talks by phone or in person.”

Regarding whether he will remain in office following the LDP-led coalition's loss of the majority in the Upper House on July 20, Ishiba said, “I can’t make a statement without carefully examining the details of the (tariff) agreement.”

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