National Security Advisor Susan E. Rice met today with Shotaro Yachi, Secretary General of Japan’s National Security Secretariat.  Ambassador Rice noted that the President looks forward to hosting Prime Minister Abe for an official visit next month, the first of its kind since 2006.  The two discussed U.S.-Japan cooperation in addressing a range of bilateral, regional and global security issues, including North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs and maritime security in East Asia.  They took note of the progress that has been made in revising the Guidelines for U.S.-Japan Defense Cooperation, and agreed that a successful outcome will ensure that the Alliance continues to be fully capable of responding to 21st century security challenges.  Ambassador Rice underscored the importance of strong relations between Japan and the Republic of Korea, and the need to maintain G-7 unity in responding to Russian aggression in Ukraine.