🎤 Kishida's Big Moment in the U.S. Congress
When Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida spoke to the U.S. Congress on April 11, he joked about never getting such a warm applause back home in the Japanese Diet. 😄 The American audience welcomed him with open arms as he shared jokes and smiles.
🇯🇵🤝🇺🇸 A New Chapter in U.S.-Japan Relations
President Joe Biden hailed the meeting, announcing security deals that he called \"the most significant upgrade of our alliance since it was first established.\" The two leaders agreed on forming a networked system for air and missile defense, and even discussed a trilateral military exercise involving Japan, the United States, and the United Kingdom. 🌐
In an exciting twist, a Japanese astronaut will join an upcoming U.S. mission to the moon, becoming the first non-American to walk on its surface! 🌕🚀
📜 Japan's Shift in Security Policy
Back in Japan, big changes are happening. In late March, the government revised guidelines on the \"three principles on transfer of defense equipment and technology,\" allowing for the export of lethal weapons co-produced with other countries. This marks a significant move away from Japan's post-World War II pacifist principles. 🕊️➡️🛡️
Kishida noted, \"Japan has changed over the years. We have transformed ourselves from a reticent ally, recovering from the devastation of World War II, to a strong, committed ally, looking outward to the world.\"
🌏 Reactions from Neighboring Countries
The Chinese mainland has expressed concerns over Japan's new direction. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian urged Japan to respect the security concerns of neighboring countries, reflect on its history, and commit to peaceful development. 🇨🇳
Professor Liu Jiangyong from Tsinghua University pointed out that while Japan chose a peaceful path after World War II, it's now shifting gears. \"Japan is now going back to the old road as its economy has declined in recent decades,\" he said. Liu warned that focusing on military production to revive the economy is like \"drinking poison to quench thirst.\" 🧪💀
🇺🇸 Support Abroad, 🤔 Doubts at Home
The U.S. is all in for Japan's enhanced defense capabilities, affirming support for increased defense budgets and new counterstrike capabilities. However, not everyone in Japan is on board. 🇯🇵
On April 10, Japanese residents held rallies protesting further military cooperation with the U.S., fearing it could lead the country down an irreversible path toward war. 🕊️✌️
💭 What's Next for Japan?
Japan's shift in security policy marks a significant moment in its post-war history. As the nation balances international alliances with domestic concerns, only time will tell how this new chapter unfolds. Stay tuned! 📺
Reference(s):
Analysis: What's behind Japan's shift on its security policy?
cgtn.com
