The upcoming summit between Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and U.S. President Joe Biden on April 10 at the White House is set to mark a historic moment for the Asia-Pacific region. The trilateral summit, which will also include Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on April 11, could pave the way for a groundbreaking U.S.-Japan-Philippines trilateral security pact.
Major Upgrade in US-Japan Security Pact
Amid the anticipation, a significant development is underway as the U.S. and Japan plan to significantly enhance the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security, originally signed in 1960. This upgrade includes restructuring the U.S. military command in Japan to bolster operational planning and joint exercises. This marks the most substantial revision to the alliance since previous updates in 1978, 1997, and 2015. Additionally, Japan is expected to be invited as a tech partner in the second pillar of the AUKUS security partnership, alongside the U.S., UK, and Australia.
The U.S.-Japan-Philippines summit aims to establish a trilateral security partnership similar to the existing U.S.-Japan-ROK (Republic of Korea) partnership formed after last August's Camp David meeting. The three nations may develop a new AUKUS-type alliance, enhancing military interoperability and defense technological collaboration. Recently, these countries conducted a joint naval patrol with Australia in the South China Sea, signaling increased trilateral security initiatives in the near future.
Japan as a Key Player in US Indo-Pacific Strategy
Within the U.S. Indo-Pacific Strategy, the Biden administration has been intensifying efforts to strengthen alliances in the region, with Japan playing a pivotal role. By leveraging Japan's military capabilities, economic strength, and regional influence, the U.S. is encouraging Japan to assume a more significant role in regional security affairs. This includes the formation of \"U.S.-Japan+\" minilaterals, such as the trilateral partnerships with the Republic of Korea and the Philippines, further integrating Japan into the U.S. security network.
Japan is embracing this expanded role, leveraging its strategic partnership with the U.S. to enhance its position as a regional power. By evolving from a traditionally defense-oriented policy, Japan aims to assert itself more prominently in regional security dynamics.
Reference(s):
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