Japan and U.S. Defense Ministers: Further Deepen Cooperation Against China, Accelerate Joint Missile Development
On May 30, Japanese Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba held a roughly one-hour meeting with U.S. Secretary of War Hegseth in Singapore.
Both sides exchanged views on what they described as "China increasing military pressure," confirmed further strengthening of collaboration, and jointly decided to accelerate joint research, development, and production of equipment such as the SM3 Block 2A intercept missile, while also agreeing to enhance deterrence and response capabilities in the Southwest Islands region.
After the meeting, addressing concerns about a perceived weakening of U.S. influence in East Asia, Minister Ishiba emphasized: "I believe the United States' commitment to East Asia remains unwavering." He also discussed defense equipment and technology cooperation, pointing out that "global demand for missiles continues to grow, and defense industry collaboration has already become one of the core priorities of the Japan-U.S. alliance."
Regarding the Japanese government's revision of the Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and related operational guidelines, which in principle allows arms exports, Hegseth expressed welcome, stating this move "helps strengthen regional deterrence and further maintain peace and stability in the region."
The two also discussed the situation in the Middle East. According to Minister Ishiba, the U.S. side did not make any specific request for deploying naval vessels.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1866626521668617/
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