Japan's Global Partnership with the United States
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida addressed a joint meeting of the U.S. Congress on April 11, 2023, emphasizing Japan's evolution from a close ally to a global partner of the United States. He highlighted the growing importance of this partnership in ensuring security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Kishida's speech contrasted with the one delivered by his predecessor, Shinzo Abe, in 2015. While Abe focused on postwar reconciliation, Kishida looked towards the future, outlining Japan's commitment to strengthening the bilateral alliance and contributing to global security.
He emphasized Japan's transformation in national security strategy, including increased defense spending and the acquisition of counterstrike capabilities. Kishida also expressed Japan's willingness to share the burden of maintaining the international order based on freedom and democracy alongside the United States.
The speech addressed the challenges posed by China, North Korea, and Russia, emphasizing their threat to the international order. Kishida specifically highlighted China's assertive actions as the greatest strategic challenge to regional and global peace and stability.
Kishida's visit to the United States, along with those of other Indo-Pacific leaders, underscores the Biden administration's focus on strengthening partnerships in the region to counter China's growing influence. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, comprising Japan, the United States, Australia, and India, serves as a key framework for this cooperation.
Kishida's speech signifies Japan's commitment to playing a more active role on the global stage, working alongside the United States to address shared security concerns and uphold the international order.