Leaders agree to strengthen Japan-NATO ties

Japan and NATO have agreed to take their relationship to another level. The alliance's chief, Jens Stoltenberg, met with Prime Minister Kishida Fumio for talks in Tokyo.

They say Russia's invasion of Ukraine and China's growing competitiveness have made "a more dangerous world."

Kishida said: "With the situations in Ukraine and the Indo-Pacific in mind, we've agreed we'll raise cooperation between Japan and NATO to a higher level. The goal is to maintain a free and open international order based on the rule of law, which includes the realization of a free and open Indo-Pacific."

Kishida said Japan may establish an independent delegation with NATO after speaking with Stoltenberg.
He also said his country intends to participate in the alliance's meetings on a regular basis.

Stoltenberg said their close cooperation could soon be crucial for maintaining peace in the Indo-Pacific.

He said: "If President Putin wins in Ukraine, this would send a message that authoritarian regimes can achieve their goals through brute force. This is dangerous. Beijing is watching closely, and learning lessons that may influence its future decisions."

Stoltenberg also said he's concerned over the growing military challenges posed by North Korea.

Japan and NATO also pledged to cooperate on combatting cyberspace threats and disinformation.

Source: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20230201_02/