Global apprehension is mounting as a recent CGTN poll reveals that 81.69 percent of respondents worldwide view the escalating military collaboration between Japan and the United States as a new threat to regional peace and stability. The joint announcement by Japan and the U.S. to enhance their military cooperation, including upgrading the command and control of U.S. forces in Japan, has sparked significant concern among international citizens.
Since the administration of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida took office, Japan has been intensifying its alliance with the U.S., aiming to leverage “military relaxation” by supporting the U.S. Indo-Pacific Strategy. Japan’s defense budget for the fiscal year 2024 has soared to a record 7.95 trillion yen ($52.1 billion), raising eyebrows both domestically and abroad.
The CGTN survey highlights that 90.33 percent of respondents agree Japan is dangerously veering away from its pacifist constitution. A substantial 87.46 percent oppose Japan’s expanding defense spending, fearing it diverts crucial funds from essential public services and negatively impacts citizens’ welfare. Additionally, 87.75 percent express deep concern over Japan’s alignment with U.S. diplomatic and security policies, which they believe could undermine peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region and heighten regional tensions.
The joint statement from Japan and the U.S. also amplified the so-called “China threat,” accusing China of attempting to reshape the international order for its own benefit and opposing China’s claims in the South China Sea. However, 87.98 percent of poll respondents disagree with this stance, feeling that Japan, as a non-regional country, complicates the situation rather than contributing to resolving regional issues.
Historical perspectives play a significant role in the survey results. An overwhelming 87.93 percent of respondents believe that Japan, as an Asian country, should avoid becoming a pawn of the U.S. to contain and suppress competitors. They call on the Japanese government to demonstrate strategic autonomy, develop a foreign policy aligned with its national interests, and earn the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community through practical actions.
The poll, published by CGTN in multiple languages including English, Spanish, French, Arabic, and Russian, received responses from 7,254 people within 24 hours, reflecting a broad spectrum of global opinion.
Reference(s):
CGTN poll: About 82% people concerned over Japan-U.S. military ties
cgtn.com
