Maheenz Views

In a recent telephone conversation, Japan's newly appointed Defense Minister, Minoru Kihara, and U.S. Defense Secretary, Lloyd Austin, resolved to fortify their nations' mutual defense and deterrence capabilities. This marks Kihara's first official dialogue with Austin since assuming his post earlier this month. Kihara described the talks as "constructive" and verified both nations' commitment to intensifying their collaborative endeavors. The conversation sets the stage for a face-to-face meeting between the two defense leaders during Kihara's upcoming visit to Washington in the first week of October. Key points from their discussion emphasized both countries' dedication to ensuring stability in the Indo-Pacific region, especially in light of China's escalating military assertiveness. Further, Tokyo and Washington agreed on the significance of deepening trilateral ties with South Korea, given North Korea's unceasing missile and nuclear advance