 For over 70 years, Japanese and Americans have enjoyed a close friendship and a lasting peace. Since its first iteration in 1985, Warrior Shield has focused on the development and refinement of the JGSDF and USERPAC's efforts in the areas of bilateral planning, coordination, and interoperability. Now in its 37th iteration, this exercise continues to underscore a continued commitment by both the United States and Japan. Japan is the anchoring and frontline ally of the United States of the Indo-Pacific. Our partnership serves as the key to integrated deterrence and regional security here on the night's edge of freedom. I am looking forward to building on our training and readiness and improving our friendship along the way during this exercise.