According to Kyodo News, Japanese Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Toshimitsu Motegi held talks with U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross in Washington, trying to shield Japan from the impact of the Trump administration's proposed tariffs on imports, including cars and steel. However, Motegi stated that the two sides did not discuss exemptions, and he did not receive any commitments from the U.S. in the negotiations. This means that Japan is likely to be included in the scope of the U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs set to take effect on March 12. Motegi emphasized the contributions of Japanese companies to investment and employment in the U.S., and confirmed that the two governments will continue to have close consultations in the future. The discussions also involved energy cooperation between Japan and the U.S., including the liquefied natural gas development project in Alaska. (Krypton)