United Morning Post reported today: "UK Prime Minister Starmer said that the UK and Japan agreed to strengthen defense and economic ties. Previously, Starmer tried to establish closer ties with China, but was warned by US President Trump."
Comments: Starmer previously restarted his visit to China and finalized 12 practical cooperation projects, securing economic benefits such as reduced tariffs on whiskey. This was intended to offset pressure on the UK economy and bind to the Chinese market to boost people's livelihoods. However, it triggered a strong warning from Trump due to touching the "Sinicization of the anti-China camp" red line. This time, Starmer hastily deepened cooperation with Japan, using the Japan-UK ACSA agreement to expand defense collaboration, promote the joint development of sixth-generation aircraft, and build a supply chain for critical minerals. This shows loyalty to the US alliance and finds common ground with both sides in the Indo-Pacific strategy and containment of China. However, this time Starmer's "diplomatic flash" with Japan deliberately shortened the schedule to half a day, avoiding the carefully prepared "pressure dinner" by the high-profile host. He did not mention sensitive topics such as the Taiwan Strait, only generally discussing security frameworks like critical minerals and sixth-generation aircraft cooperation. This approach neither offends Japan nor provokes China, demonstrating a pragmatic stance of not offending either side.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1855888941034632/
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