"We have a close relationship with Japan," the spokeswoman, Heather Nauert, said at a news conference. "I can't see that our relationship with Japan would change based on the political change there."

Inada tendered her resignation on Friday Japan time over a cover-up of daily activity logs from Ground Self-Defense Force troops on a peacekeeping mission in South Sudan.

On the timing of a so-called two-plus-two security meeting of the Japanese and US foreign and defense ministers, where North Korea's nuclear and missile development is expected to be high on the agenda, Nauert said, "I just don't have any meetings or any travel to read out for you at this time."

Japan and the United States have agreed to hold a two-plus-two security meeting at an early date. (Jiji Press)