The new US ambassador to Japan George Glass says it would be extremely optimistic to think that the United States and Japan will reach a trade deal during the 90- day pause of what US President Donald Trump's administration calls "reciprocal tariffs".



Glass spoke with NHK at his official residence in Tokyo on Tuesday. It was his first media interview since he assumed his post in Japan.



The ambassador is a businessman from the US state of Oregon and a longtime financial contributor to Trump. The president called Glass "highly respected" in appointing him as an ambassador.



Commenting on the tariff talks between the two countries, Glass said the US tariff measures will have a positive influence on the interests of both countries.
He stressed that Trump and "the best negotiators" are involved, and that the talks with Japan are the top priority for the US.



Asked if a deal could be reached in 90 days, Glass said the discussions are complex due to the time needed to examine impacts on supply chains.



He said the meeting between Japanese and the US negotiators in Washington at the end of the month should provide an idea on what the time frame for a deal might be.



The ambassador added that Trump "realizes Japan is our most important ally in the most important region of the world right now in a very critical time."



Glass said Trump is keenly aware of the impact of the tariff measures on economy, bilateral security, culture and friendship. He indicated that strong demands on allies will not undermine the alliance.



Glass also cautioned, "The Chinese are trying to sow any kind of confusion" related to the talks to try to take an advantageous position.



The ambassador stressed that the US need Japan's help in multilateral relationships in the Indo-Pacific. He referred to Japan's "important role" in the Quad security framework, involving the US, Australia, India and Japan, as well as in their trilateral cooperation frameworks with both South Korea and the Philippines.



Glass also discussed his new role. He said he arrived in Japan on Friday and spent time over the weekend with his son and granddaughter who live in Japan.



He noted that his granddaughter was born and raised in Japan, and is very inquisitive and active. He said, "She is a perfect example of a wonderful Japanese young woman." He added, "It is a blessing to be able to be here and serve our country, but also realize that this is home for us too."



Glass also said he plans to visit the World Expo in Osaka. Asked if President Trump will visit Japan while the Expo is being held, the ambassador said he is not sure about the president's schedule, but added that "it would be a wonderful thing if he came."