Japan's Global Partnership with the United States
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida addressed a joint meeting of the U.S. Congress on April 11, 2023, emphasizing Japan's transformation from a regional partner to a global partner of the United States. He highlighted the evolving relationship between the two nations, moving beyond the traditional "closest ally" designation to encompass a broader, global partnership.
Our Global Partnership," contrasted with the address delivered by his predecessor, Shinzo Abe, in 2015. While Abe focused on the past, particularly postwar reconciliation, Kishida looked towards the future, outlining Japan's commitment to security in the Indo-Pacific region and its willingness to share the burden with the United States.
He emphasized Japan's strengthened national security strategy, including increased defense spending and the acquisition of counterstrike capabilities. This commitment aligns with the Biden administration's focus on regional allies and partners in countering China's growing assertiveness.
Kishida acknowledged the challenges posed by China, North Korea, and Russia, emphasizing their threat to the international order. He specifically addressed China's "unprecedented" military actions, highlighting them as a significant challenge to regional and global peace and stability.
The prime minister's speech underscores the deepening partnership between Japan and the United States, extending beyond security to encompass economic collaboration. This partnership is crucial in maintaining the international order based on freedom and democracy, a responsibility that Kishida affirmed Japan's willingness to share with the United States.