They will consider expanding cooperative efforts in theater missile defense technology and exercises, study ways of sharing data obtained through early warning systems, discuss theater missile defense architecture concepts, and seek opportunities for joint research and development in theater missile defense.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: The Clinton Missile Gaffe

U.S. officials have been more blunt in expressing frustration with both countries for failing to create basic cooperative agreements like a routine intelligence-sharing pact that fell apart a year ago and have raised concerns that Mr. Abe's nationalistic government might further complicate ties between two of America's closest Asian allies at a time of growing regional instability.

WSJ: Japan War-Shrine Visits Rile Neighbors

Privately, American officials have been more blunt in expressing frustration with both countries for failing to create basic cooperative agreements like a routine intelligence-sharing pact that fell apart a year ago and have raised concerns that Mr. Abe's new nationalistic government might further complicate ties between two of America's closest Asian allies at a time of growing regional instability.

WSJ: Abe Aides' War Shrine Visit Sparks Backlash