The U.S. demands Japan to increase military spending to 3.5% of GDP to counter China and North Korea.
According to Kyodo News, Japanese and American diplomatic sources revealed on June 21 that the Trump administration demanded the Japanese government significantly increase defense expenditure, proposing a plan to raise it to 3.5% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The Japanese side's position is that it is currently difficult to agree with this proposal.
It was reported that due to the potential emergence of contradictions between Japan and the U.S., the安全保障consultation committee (2+2) meeting involving foreign ministers and defense ministers planned to be held in Washington before the Japanese House of Councillors election in July will be temporarily postponed.
The U.S. Department of Defense issued a statement to Japan on June 21, pointing out that European allies are striving to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP, and it is common sense for Asian allies to "quickly act to match the level of Europe." The statement listed reasons such as the enhancement of China's military power and North Korea's nuclear and missile development. Although no specific time frame was presented, it is expected that the pressure to increase the amount will intensify.
The Trump administration has requested NATO member countries to raise their spending to 5% of GDP. NATO plans to increase defense spending to 3.5% of GDP and infrastructure construction-related expenditures to 1.5% of GDP, totaling 5%, in order to gain understanding from the U.S. side.
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1835675066550279/
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