The restructuring of US forces in Japan will see the creation of a new operational command capable of fighting a war alongside a new Japanese joint command. It is, according to defence secretary Lloyd Austin, “the most significant change to US Forces Japan since its creation and one of the strongest improvements in our military ties with Japan in 70 years”. The extra funding for the Philippines’ military and coast guard reflects the deepening of Washington’s security partnership with Manila since Ferdinand Marcos Jr became president in 2022. Japan and the Philippines recently signed an agreement on security and defence co-operation. While the US and China are shoring up their strategic positions, it is essential that they focus on their diplomatic relationship and deepen their dialogue.

Source: The Irish Times August 01, 2024 23:42 UTC