During NATO’s 75th anniversary in Washington, U.S. President Joe Biden met with the Indo-Pacific Four (IP4) leaders: Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, President Yoon Suk-yeol of the Republic of Korea, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon of New Zealand, and Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles of Australia to discuss mutual security challenges and increase connectivity between Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific nations in response to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.
The G-7 and NATO leaders have consistently supported Ukraine’s defense. Japan has shown support through sanctions, freezing Russian assets, and providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Japan also has signed a key agreement in support of Ukraine, becoming the first non-Atlantic country to do so.
There is a concerning alliance between Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, potentially involving North Korea providing missiles for Russia’s attacks on Ukraine. Japan has remained vigilant, especially after recent missile launches by North Korea near Japan’s EEZ.
Recent territorial disputes, such as China installing buoys near Japan’s EEZ, have raised concerns in Japan, particularly with China’s increasing military activities. Japan continues to rely on its alliance with the United States for security.
Concerns over the bilateral treaty’s fragility have been heightened, with doubts over commitments potentially weakening the alliance. The Kishida administration has been actively seeking alliances with other nations and strengthening cooperation with NATO as a means of deterrence against potential adversaries.
On July 11, the IP4 nations and NATO’s secretary general announced projects to enhance cyber defense, counter disinformation, and improve cooperation. Japan announced personnel exchanges with NATO and intelligence sharing, highlighting the need to build capabilities and adapt to changing security landscapes.
With the world at an inflection point, Japan sees the importance of bolstering its partnership with NATO to address ongoing conflicts, leadership changes, and increasing tensions in the region.