President Biden and Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida are set to meet in Washington this week for discussions aimed at strengthening the alliance between their countries. Both leaders are facing challenges to their leadership positions, with Biden in a tight re-election contest and Kishida dealing with falling approval ratings amid a political scandal. Their goal is to ensure that their countries’ alliance remains strong even if they are no longer in power. Japanese officials are concerned about the possibility of a return to power by Donald Trump and the potential for shifts in American foreign policy.
While Japan is not facing an imminent change in government, there is a focus on continuity and stability in Tokyo’s policy commitments. The summit between Biden and Kishida will involve discussions on closer military cooperation, collaborations in technology sectors, and potential arms exports from Japan to the United States. The alliance between the two countries has weathered past turbulence, and efforts are being made to expand and strengthen it to counter China’s influence in the region.
In an increasingly complex security environment, Japan is emphasizing the importance of cooperation with the U.S. and other like-minded countries, such as the Philippines, to maintain peace and stability in the region. The aim is to deter Chinese aggression and ensure a strong network of Pacific nations aligned against potential conflicts. Japan has made significant changes to its defense policy, increasing military spending and engaging in defense exports to the U.S. This week’s discussions between Biden and Kishida will likely focus on further defense cooperation and economic ties between the two countries.
The economic component of Kishida’s visit is expected to include a trip to a Toyota battery plant in North Carolina, highlighting Japan’s investments in the U.S. The visit may also serve as a reminder to the Biden administration of the importance of Japanese businesses in America. The potential acquisition of U.S. Steel by Nippon Steel, a Japanese corporation, could complicate business ties between the two countries if it does not go through. The alliance between the U.S. and Japan is seen as strategic and resilient, transcending single commercial deals or disputes.
With Congress debating military assistance to Ukraine, Kishida’s aides have not confirmed whether he will mention Japan’s support for Ukraine during his speech to American lawmakers. However, Kishida has expressed the importance of unity among the G7 and other like-minded countries in achieving peace in Ukraine. The ceremonial aspects of the visit, including a state dinner, offer an opportunity for the leaders to engage in more informal discussions and strengthen personal bonds. Overall, the summit between Biden and Kishida is expected to focus on deepening the alliance between their countries while addressing regional security challenges and economic cooperation.
