Obama calls Japanese PM; discuss NKorea, China, trade

US President Barack Obama today spoke to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to discuss economic issues and regional security including North Korea's nuclear programme, the White House said.
Following the telephonic conversation, the White House said that the two leaders discussed regional security and economic issues.
"They pledged to continue to work together closely toward the elimination of North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programs," the White House said.
The two leaders discussed Obama's recent meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, and agreed on the importance of ensuring stability and pursuing dialogue as it relates to the East China Sea.

"The President stressed that the United States looks forward to being able to welcome Japan to the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations as early as possible once current TPP members complete their domestic requirements," the White House said.
Obama and Abe expressed the shared desire to work together closely at the up-coming G8 Summit in Northern Ireland, the statement said.