Jens Stoltenberg said Tuesday that Japan and the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation must remain united and firm in the face of the security threats posed by China, North Korea and Russia's war in Ukraine.
Stoltenberg, Secretary General of the European and North American military alliance, warned that Beijing was keeping a close eye on developments in Ukraine and learn lessons that could affect its future decisions. Stoltenberg spoke to Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida as part of a trip to Asia as part of a trip to Asia by Stoltenberg in an effort to boost relations with democratic allies.
What is happening today in Europe and could happen tomorrow in East Asia. He said that we must remain united and firm, standing together for freedom and democracy.
Stoltenberg and Kishida said they were worried about the increasing cooperation between China and Russia.
They said in a joint statement that they highlight Russia's growing military cooperation with China, including through joint operations and drills in the vicinity of Japan.