Statement from U.S.-Japan Caucus Co-Chairs on the Assassination of Former Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzō

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressmen Joaquin Castro (TX-20) and Adrian Smith (NE-03), Co-Chairs of the U.S.-Japan Congressional Caucus, released the following statement on the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzō:

"We are deeply saddened by the assassination of former Prime Minister Abe. As Japan's longest-serving Prime Minister, he was a tireless advocate for Japan and a trusted friend of the United States. The alliance between the United States and Japan is undoubtedly stronger because of his leadership and his work to advance security and economic cooperation between our countries.

"Prime Minister Abe left an indelible mark on the allied approach to the broader region. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue and the broader idea of a ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific' originated under his premiership and will be an enduring legacy.

"As we mourn today, our hearts are with our friends in Japan."