Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield expressed America's unwavering support for Japan in the quest to bring back Japanese citizens abducted by North Korea decades ago. Japan believes that at least 17 of its citizens were taken by North Korea in the 1970s and 1980s, with 12 still missing. These abductees, including teenagers and coastal residents, were forcibly taken to North Korea, causing immense pain and separation for their families.
During her visit to Japan, Thomas-Greenfield met with families of the abducted individuals, acknowledging the deep suffering they have endured over the years. She reiterated the U.S. commitment to raising the abduction issue at every opportunity and advocating for the return of the Japanese citizens to their families, irrespective of the leadership in place.
