Japan and the European Union have launched a groundbreaking security partnership, the first of its kind between the EU and an Indo-Pacific country. Announced Friday, this new agreement is set to increase joint military drills and deepen defense industry cooperation as concerns grow over China, North Korea, and Russia.
Strengthening EU-Japan Relations
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell and Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya met in Tokyo to finalize the partnership. The deal underscores the EU’s expanding engagement in the Indo-Pacific, where China and Russia are increasing joint military activities and North Korea has reportedly deployed troops to Russia. Borrell described the agreement as “historical and very timely” given the mounting global challenges. He emphasized the importance of “partnerships among friends” to confront today’s security threats.
Regional Concerns and North Korean Missile Test
The announcement coincided with North Korea’s recent claim that it test-fired a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capable of reaching further than any previous test. Borrell and Iwaya expressed “grave concern” over Russia’s deepening ties with North Korea, including troop movements and arms transfers. Both officials also reiterated their commitment to supporting Ukraine and condemned Russia’s ongoing aggression.
Shared Security Goals for Europe and the Indo-Pacific
The partnership aims to underscore the “inseparable” nature of security in the Indo-Pacific and Europe. Japan and the EU plan to hold regular working-level talks on defense and security. And conduct joint naval exercises with other countries, and collaborate on cybersecurity and space defense. They also aim to work together in nuclear disarmament efforts. They have considered intelligence-sharing agreements, and promote exchanges in defense industry information.
Japan’s Expanding Role in Global Defense
As part of its 2022 security strategy, Japan has been strengthening its military alliances with the U.S. and other partners. This includes Australia, the UK, and various Indo-Pacific and European countries. Tokyo recently relaxed its restrictions on arms exports, aiming to develop its defense industry and expand its global role. Japan is also co-developing a next-generation fighter jet with the UK and Italy as part of its new defense initiatives.
Defense Spending Increase in Response to China’s Rise
Japan plans to increase its defense spending to 2% of GDP by 2027, aligning with NATO standards. This spending boost is intended, in part, to counterbalance China’s growing military pressure on Taiwan, which Beijing considers a breakaway province. China criticized the European Parliament for adopting a resolution that condemned Beijing’s “attempts to distort history and international rules” to justify its territorial claims over Taiwan.