Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru says Japan and the United States should bring about a solution to the tariff issue that is desirable for both nations.



In an NHK talk show program on Sunday, Ishiba referred to the ongoing bilateral negotiations on US tariffs on Japanese imports.



On tariffs on Japanese auto imports, Ishiba said US President Donald Trump told him via phone and in person, that there are few US vehicles on road in Japan. He said he presumes the issue bothers Americans deeply.



On Japanese automobile safety standards that Washington regarded as a non-tariff barrier, Ishiba said the safety of Japanese consumers has to be taken into account.



He said the government will closely examine the standards so they can't be called unfair, considering differences in Japanese and US traffic conditions.



On US calls for importing more US farm produce, Ishiba stressed zero tolerance for reduced food safety standards, adding that the government will ensure the safety of Japanese people.



He also said security is a separate issue from trade and it should be discussed separately from the tariff negotiations. He said Japan will make efforts to defend itself rather than being pushed by Washington.



Ishiba said he and Trump will make a final decision on a solution after in-depth discussions.



He said he will visit the United States when the time is right and do all he can to reach the best possible outcome.