“We have close ties with Japan through our shared values of freedom, democracy, the rule of law, fundamental human rights and open and fair trade,” Shapps’ deputy and supplies minister said in matters of defense, James Cartlidge. “We both recognize that the security and prosperity of the Euro-Atlantic area and the Indo-Pacific are inseparable. »
The AMCP was just the beginning. It was confirmed last month that Japan would join a subsection of the AUKUS nuclear submarine program between the United States, United Kingdom and Australia, focused on artificial intelligence and quantum computing.
Long before this announcement, AUKUS had already been given a new iconic nickname in Tokyo: “JAUKUS”.
Teeth chattering about Trump 2.0
Japan’s new approach to defense and security appears more urgent in Tokyo given the possibility of Trump’s return to the White House next year. With fewer moderate voices around him this time — and no Abe to lend an ear — Trump’s potential return has fueled fears about America’s commitment to its allies, from kyiv to Tokyo.
“It is extremely difficult today to find someone who is both rational and pragmatic in thinking about foreign and security strategy in the Trump camp,” said Japanese academic Hosoya, sitting in his office cramped and filled with books from Keio University. “Trump 2.0 would be totally, radically different from 1.0.”
Kobayashi, the Japanese Foreign Ministry press secretary, declined to comment on the upcoming US elections – but it is clear that Japan views British influence in Washington as a possible helping hand. Britain is “an important player on the international stage”, she tactfully stressed, adding that the UK and Japan must push their allies to make a “continued contribution to the world”.
Politices
