Kishida: ‘Historic Turning Point’ – Current Actions of the Japanese Government

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s mention of a ‘historic turning point’ during an interview with CNN on the 7th ahead of his summit with U.S. President Joe Biden has sparked discussion. In the interview, Prime Minister Kishida stated that escalating geopolitical tensions have pushed the world into a ‘historic turning point,’ compelling Japan to reconsider its defense posture.

He noted, “As we observe Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the ongoing situations in the Middle East and East Asia, we are facing a historic turning point.” He added, “This is precisely why Japan has decided to enhance its defense capabilities fundamentally, and we have made significant changes to Japan’s security policies on this front.”

Prime Minister Kishida highlighted the increasing importance of the alliance between Japan and the U.S. amidst growing security challenges. He expressed his hope that this perspective would garner bipartisan support in Washington.

He also announced plans to deliver a speech at a joint U.S. Congress session and participate in the inaugural trilateral summit between the U.S. and the Philippines.

The U.S. views the upcoming U.S.-Japan summit as a historic opportunity to modernize their alliance, given the regional threats ranging from North Korea’s weapons testing to Russia’s expanding relationships and China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea and towards Taiwan.

While the partnership with Japan has long been pivotal to U.S. strategy in the Indo-Pacific region, under Prime Minister Kishida’s administration, the defense relationship has expanded, enhancing Japan’s standing in global and regional security.

The U.S.-Japan summit is taking place amidst uncertain circumstances for both leaders.

Prime Minister Kishida is grappling with dismal approval ratings primarily due to scandals associated with his party, and the upcoming U.S. presidential election raises the possibility of policy shifts if former President Trump returns to the White House next year.

When asked about concerns regarding the return of the former U.S. president, Prime Minister Kishida declined to comment. Instead, he emphasized his belief that the significance of the U.S.-Japan alliance is widely recognized regardless of party affiliations. He stated, “The relationship between Japan and the U.S. has never been stronger,” and “Regardless of the election outcome, it’s crucial for American citizens to recognize the importance of the relationship between Japan and the U.S.”

He also mentioned that the Japanese government is pursuing a ‘high-level approach’ to secure a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to address ‘unresolved issues’ and promote stable relations between the two countries.

Japan, alongside South Korea, stands on the frontline of North Korea’s aggressive weapons testing program, with North Korea’s test missiles regularly landing in regional waters. Additionally, the issue of Japanese citizens kidnapped by North Korea decades ago remains a particularly emotional point of contention.

Prime Minister Kishida stated that the Japanese government monitors equipment exchanges between Pyongyang and Moscow. He also pointed out China and Russia’s joint military exercises and described cooperation as essential for “international order and stability.”