Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is embarking on a significant visit to Washington—the first by a Japanese leader in nine years. Reports suggest that the United States and Japan are planning the most substantial upgrade to their security alliance since the Mutual Defense Treaty of 1960, aiming to address regional challenges.
However, there are discussions about whether this “biggest upgrade” truly enhances security or is influenced by domestic political considerations.
Japan is currently facing economic pressures, with official data indicating that its core consumer price index has reached a multi-decade high in 2023. Domestically, Prime Minister Kishida has been contending with declining approval ratings, influenced by economic challenges and political issues within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).
As the LDP prepares for a leadership election, strengthening ties with the United States may serve as a strategic move for Kishida to bolster public support and reinforce his leadership. Diplomatic success on the international stage could provide a boost to his domestic standing.
While the proposed enhancements to the U.S.-Japan alliance are presented as efforts to bolster regional security, some observers consider that domestic political considerations may also be playing a role in this push for upgraded ties. The interplay between genuine security needs and political strategy is an important aspect of the current developments.
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Does 'biggest upgrade' in U.S.-Japan alliance mean enhanced security?
cgtn.com
