(Reopens FES 48)

In a readout of the phone call, the White House said Trump and Abe discussed the importance of the US-Japan alliance and cooperation on regional and global issues.

"President Trump affirmed the iron-clad US commitment to ensuring the security of Japan," the White House said.

They also discussed the significance of Secretary of Defence James Mattis's upcoming visit to the region, including Japan.

Trump and Abe said they would consult and cooperate on the threat posed by North Korea, the White House said.

"The two leaders also committed to deepen the bilateral trade and investment relationship. President Trump and Prime Minister Abe agreed to meet in Washington, on February 10," said the readout of the phone call.

(This article has not been edited by DNA's editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)