TOKYO — Japan should play a role in global security reflecting its stature as a major democracy at a time when North Korea still is viewed as a threat in the region, Defense Secretary Gates asserted today.

Mr. Gates’ exhortation came as Japanese officials remain at odds over Tokyo’s recent decision to pull warships from their refueling mission in support of the American-led coalition operations in Afghanistan.

At a news conference with Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba of Japan, Mr. Gates said America “would like to see Japan play a role on the national stage that befits its role as one of the world’s greatest and wealthiest democracies.”

He added that there are “a number of international peacekeeping and other activities where we believe Japan could play a constructive role.”

Mr. Ishiba referred to ongoing efforts by the government to reach a compromise to resume the refueling mission, saying it is important for Japan’s national interests. Speaking through an interpreter, he said “the more the suspension continues, our posture will be deemed as more negative regarding the war on terror.”

The news conference, held at Japan’s defense ministry, concluded several hours of meetings for Mr. Gates, including a session with Foreign Minister Masahiko Komura.

Mr. Komura said he told Gates that, “It was unfortunate we had to halt the anti-terrorism activity.”

“But I told him that we are doing the best we can so that we can resume the mission as soon as possible,” he added. “Defense Secretary Gates expressed high expectations for a resumption.”

Mr. Komura also told reporters that he and Mr. Gates reaffirmed international efforts to get North Korea to accomplish its obligations to disable its atomic weapons programs.

“In the meantime, Japan and the U.S. will steadily continue our joint missile defense programs,” Mr. Komura said.

Officials traveling with Gates said today that they expected a great deal of discussion about the six-nation talks that have led to North Korea’s initial move this week to begin disabling its nuclear facilities at the main Yongbyon complex.

The Japanese have expressed concerns about the possibility that North Korea may eventually be taken off the American list of countries that support terrorism. But today, Mr. Ishiba said he did not seek any specific assurances from Mr. Gates that such a decision be delayed.