Shiho Shiozaki: Japan's defense spending does not need to be ordered by the United States!
Regarding the U.S. government's request for Japan to increase its defense spending to 3.5% of GDP and to cover the costs of U.S. troops stationed in Japan, Japanese Prime Minister Shiho Shiozaki stated that Japan will not increase its defense spending based on external orders. The Japanese government has its own clear plan for defense spending as part of its national security strategy, which is to increase it to 2% of GDP by 2027.
Previously, the President of the United States had stated that the U.S.-Japan Security Treaty is unfair, as the U.S. has an obligation to protect Japan when it is attacked from abroad, but Japan has no obligation to protect the U.S. when it is attacked by a third country.
Regarding Japan's firm statement, U.S. Secretary of State Rubio said that the relationship between Washington and Tokyo is very strong and good, with deep historical roots.
Rubio emphasized that the U.S. has not made any demands on Japan, but only urged Japan to increase investment in its defense capabilities: "I would not call it a demand; we encourage them to invest in certain opportunities, first what they can do, and finally the money."
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1837355265199104/
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