“Obviously we will also talk about the economy,” thinks Molijn. And this year, Japan chairs the G7 and was elected a permanent member of the Security Council for two years. Japan sees its role as a peacemaker, so Ukraine, Taiwan and North Korea are all high on the agenda.’
According to Molijn, the new defense strategy Japan has unveiled is special. “He cites China as the main threat. And for the first time there is talk of the possibility that you can attack yourself. It has never been possible. The constitution has not been renewed, but is being reinterpreted. More weapons can be bought and Japan could attack China. Also, the war in Ukraine teaches us a lot in terms of logistics and where to get supplies, among other things. (…) Three quarters of the conversation will therefore concern the defence. Besides the fact that Japan will buy a lot of weapons in America».
Agreement
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Kishida signed a defense deal in London on Wednesday that allows the countries to deploy troops on each other’s territory. Kishida can also ask Biden this question. “There are already American troops in Japan. But at the same time US troops are being expanded. There will be a separate coastal defense force and new training facilities will be built. So in that sense it will happen.’