Shigeru Ishiba, a prominent figure in Japan's political landscape, is preparing for a significant summit in Washington with U.S. President Donald Trump, scheduled for February 7. Both nations are putting final touches on the meeting’s details as they focus on enhancing cooperative efforts in national security and economic sectors.
In anticipation of the discussion, Ishiba plans to urge Japan’s commitment to acting as a reliable ally by sharing responsibilities that support a “free and open Indo-Pacific,” a stance that gains urgency amid China’s increasing assertiveness in the region. During the meeting, both sides are expected to deliberate over important issues such as potential adjustments in trade policies, including possible higher tariffs from Trump's perspective, and an increase in Japan's defense spending to align with mutual security goals.
Additionally, there are discussions about boosting bilateral energy ties, with some lawmakers proposing an expansion of U.S. liquefied natural gas imports in light of Trump’s inclination to ramp up fossil fuel production. A critical agenda item is also the reaffirmation of the U.S. commitment under Article 5 of the Japan-U.S. Security Treaty concerning the defense of territories like the Senkaku Islands, ensuring that regional security commitments remain clear and robust.
Ishiba’s efforts to secure a meeting have been persistent, dating back to before Trump’s presidential inauguration. Despite earlier scheduling challenges and postponements, both parties continue working to set a definitive timetable, reinforcing the desire to elevate the longstanding Japan-U.S. alliance while addressing evolving geopolitical and economic challenges.