The Pentagon chief also stressed trilateral cooperation with Tokyo and Seoul is crucial for regional stability even as South Korea is in political turmoil.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has met with officials in Japan to reaffirm the importance of their alliance and Washington's commitment to regional security as threats rise from China and North Korea.

TOKYO — Lloyd Austin, on his last visit to Japan as defense secretary, reiterated U.S. support for ally South Korea as it works through the repercussions of its president’s attempt a week ago to impose martial law.