The Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security between the United States of America and Japan was signed here in Washington fifty years ago today.  On that day, President Dwight Eisenhower pledged to establish an indestructible partnership based on equality and mutual understanding.  The enduring partnership between the United States of America and Japan has helped bring unprecedented prosperity and peace in freedom to our nations.  Our alliance has secured extraordinary benefits for the entire Asia Pacific region and made possible the unparalleled progress of the past five decades.
 
Today, we commemorate the first half-century of this important alliance, which was founded on our shared values and our common interest in peace and security, and reflects the abiding ties between our citizens and institutions.  America’s commitment to Japan’s security is unshakable, and our cooperation to meet common challenges is a critical part of our engagement with the world.  And just as we honor the countless Americans and Japanese who have built the ties that bind our nations, we also look to the future with a determination to build upon the foundation of their progress.
 
As we celebrate the anniversary of the treaty, we pay tribute to its role in supporting regional security and prosperity, and strengthening our two democracies.  Let us now undertake to renew our alliance for the 21st century and enhance the bonds of friendship and common purpose that unite our nations.