Japan PM, Obama confirm alliance on economic issues

USA: President Barack Obama telephoned the prime minister of Japan, the United States' top ally in Asia, and confirmed their shared desire to work together on economic issues, the Foreign Ministry said Thursday.

Obama and Prime Minister Taro Aso agreed to cooperate in tackling the deepening global recession and other key issues during the 10-minute conversation Thursday morning, the ministry said in a statement.

The two leaders also agreed to strengthen their partnership in their fight against terrorism, climate change and other international concerns, such as North Korea's atomic programs, the ministry said.

The conversation - conducted in English, without an interpretor - provided a temporary respite for Aso, who is to face harsh questions from opposition leaders at parliament later Thursday over his economic measures and other key policies. Tokyo, Thursday, AP