Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio and US President Joe Biden have confirmed a need to strengthen the deterrence and response capabilities of their bilateral alliance.

The two leaders spoke by phone for about 25 minutes on Tuesday night, Japan time, after a North Korean ballistic missile flied over Japan for the first time in five years, on the morning of the same day.

Kishida and Biden condemned the launch. They shared the recognition that a series of the North's provocations including missile launches, are a clear and grave challenge to the peace and stability of Japan, the region and the international community.

Kishida conveyed his resolve to drastically strengthen Japan's defense capabilities. Kishida and Biden confirmed that the cooperation among Japan, the US and South Korea should be promoted.

They confirmed that the three countries should closely work together to fully denuclearize the North in line with UN security council resolutions.

They also discussed abductions of Japanese nationals by North Korea. Biden told Kishida that the US will fully cooperate in resolving the issue.

After the talks, Kishida told reporters that Japan needs to continue to study options for its own sanctions against the North. He said he will send out strong messages, while making appeals at the UN and collaborating with relevant countries.

Asked if he plans to speak with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol by phone, Kishida said he will closely communicate with Yoon, as security is related to people's lives and livelihoods.