The Pentagon has announced that James Mattis' first overseas trip as Defense Secretary will be to Japan and South Korea, highlighting the Pacific region's importance to US national security interests. 
"The trip will underscore the commitment of the United States to our enduring alliances with Japan and the Republic of Korea, and further strengthen U.S.-Japan-Republic of Korea security cooperation," said Captain Jeff Davis, a Pentagon spokesman. Secretary Mattis' first overseas stop will be in South Korea to meet with the country's officials, defense minister Han Min-goo included. In the 3ed of February, Mattis' is scheduled to head for Tokyo for a couple of meetings with the Japanese Minister of Defense Tomomi Inada.

Source: QNA