Tokyo's military ambitions collide with US priorities
2026-03-23 10:20:47 source：CGTN
March 22, 2026
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's first official visit to the United States to reaffirm "unwavering solidarity" between Tokyo and Washington comes as Japan uses the regional environment to justify expanding its military position.
Since assuming office, Takaichi has adopted a strikingly hawkish tone toward China, frequently portraying Beijing as the central challenge to Japan's national security.
In a recent policy statement, she argued that her country was facing the most "severe and complex" security environment of the post-war era, citing China's military modernization and regional activities. Such rhetoric has become an essential component of her efforts to rally political support for sweeping changes to Japan's security policy.
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