Business leaders from Japan and the United States are meeting in Tokyo to boost corporate ties. The conference kicks off amid concerns over the impact of US tariff measures.
More than 200 top executives are taking part in this year's 62nd Japan-US Business Conference.
Japan-US Business Council chair Sawada Jun commented that so many things have happened since US President Donald Trump took office.
He said: "We are facing an unpredictable world. I think it is necessary to strengthen communication at the corporate-level."
The US side's leader, David Goeckeler, said the conference has played a vital role in advancing the bilateral economic relationship.
He believes this year's meeting is particularly important.
He also said, "My hope is that at the end of this conference, we can agree on collective actions that will form even stronger ties between our two countries."
Items up for discussion include transparency in trade and investment, as well as research and development in artificial intelligence, semiconductors and quantum computing. Enhancing supply chain resilience is another topic.
A joint statement to wrap up the conference is expected on Friday.

Quiz 1:
In what city is the 62nd Japan-US Business Conference taking place?
A. New York
B. Los Angeles
C. Tokyo
D. San Francisco

Quiz 2:
What is the name of the chair of the Japan-US Business Council?
A. Sawada Ken
B. Nakamura Yoshi
C. Sawada Jun
D. Ishikawa Taro

Quiz 3:
What topics are expected to be discussed during the conference? (Select all that apply)
A. Transparency in trade and investment
B. Research and development in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and quantum computing
C. Enhancing supply chain resilience
D. Environmental policies
E. Education reforms
F. Taxation laws