EU and Japan combine forces: historical security alliance against threats!

EU and Japan combine forces: historical security alliance against threats!

Japan and the European Union have launched a groundbreaking security and defense partnership! In the middle of growing tensions with China, North Korea and Russia, the two players rely on increased military cooperation. "We live in a very dangerous world," said EU head of foreign policy Josep Borrell on Friday in Tokyo, where he and the Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya announced the partnership.

"In a world full of rivalries and war threats, the only solution is to close partnerships among friends," added Borrell. This agreement is the first of its kind to meet the EU with a country in the Asian-Pacific area, and Borrell described it as "historically and very contemporary" in view of the current geopolitical situation. The EU official is on an East Asia trip that also includes South Korea, emphasizing the growing commitment of the EU in the region.

Common military exercises and exchange of defense

The talks took place just one day after North Korea's latest rocket test, in which a new type of intercontinental rocket was tested. Borrell and Iwaya expressed “serious concerns” with regard to the increasing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, including the North Korea's troops. Both politicians confirmed their commitment to support Ukraine and condemned Russian aggression.

Japan has accelerated his military upgrading plans under a new security strategy that was adopted in 2022 and works closely with the USA and other partners such as Australia and the United Kingdom. Tokyo has also relaxed his voluntary arms export restrictions to expand its defense industry and play a larger role on the global stage. The partnership also provides for “concrete maritime cooperation”, including joint exercises and visits to the port.