US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Japan's economy minister, Hiroshige Seko, have expressed an interest in strengthening bilateral trade during their first meeting on the sidelines of an APEC trade ministers gathering in Hanoi. 

The two officials agreed to promote "mutually-beneficial trade, fight trade distorting measures, foster economic growth, and help establish high standards."

Both sides also reiterated their commitment to strengthening cooperation to address common concerns regarding unfair trade practices utilized by other countries.