Capt. Jessica Worst, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam, welcomed Consul General UEDA Susumu of the Japan Consulate in Guam on April 2, 2025, for an office call at the unit to strengthen U.S.-Japan maritime ties. Pictured here with exchanged gifts—a handpicked Japanese plate and an FMSG hat and coin—the visit symbolizes the deepening partnership. The U.S. Coast Guard and Japan Coast Guard share a robust history of collaboration, from joint exercises near Yokosuka to trilateral agreements like the U.S.-Japan-Korea Letter of Intent signed in 2024.
Together, the two nations tackle pressing challenges: ensuring visitor safety, combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUUF), and monitoring foreign vessel transits in the Indo-Pacific. This work matters because a secure maritime domain underpins regional stability, trade, and prosperity—especially as Japanese tourism rebounds.
Looking ahead, both entities are committed to expanding cooperation. Facing complex maritime threats—irregular migration, resource depletion, and geopolitical tensions—future intentions include more joint operations, training exchanges, and support for Pacific Island nations. This partnership isn’t just about today; it’s about building resilience for tomorrow’s challenges. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by CWO Sara Muir)
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