Japan's foreign minister and the UN chief have agreed to closely cooperate in realizing the rule of law among nations and strengthening the functions of the world body.

Hayashi Yoshimasa held talks with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York on Thursday. Hayashi visited the city to attend an open debate at the UN Security Council.

Japan is currently serving as a non-permanent member of the Security Council. Hayashi said Japan will actively contribute so that the council can fulfill its expected responsibilities through close cooperation with other countries.

The two officials agreed to jointly work to strengthen the functions of the entire United Nations, through Security Council reform and other efforts.

They also agreed to closely cooperate in promoting disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation.

Hayashi also met US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield. They agreed that the Security Council should take coordinated actions toward North Korea. Pyongyang has recently conducted test-launches of ballistic missiles at an unprecedented frequency.