In a surprising twist, the U.S. government has pressed Japan to raise its defense spending to 3.5% of its GDP. This bold move may lead Tokyo to cancel a key two-plus-two security meeting between defense and foreign officials in Washington, as reported by Kyodo News and the Financial Times.
Originally set as a chance for both sides to engage in fresh dialogue, the meeting would have been the first since recent leadership changes. U.S. undersecretary of defense for policy Elbridge Colby had earlier suggested a 3% target, but the new demand has ratcheted up the pressure.
For young, tech-savvy, and socially conscious professionals across South and Southeast Asia, this shift shows how global policy dynamics can impact trends that matter—from innovation to everyday lifestyle shifts 🌏. In 2022, Japan aimed to double its defense budget to 2% of GDP by 2027, marking a significant pivot from its traditional pacifist stance.
Amid debates over the balance of the U.S.-Japan security treaty and hints that Tokyo might need to cover more costs for U.S. troop deployments, this development is a reminder of the fast-paced and often unpredictable nature of international relations 🚀. Stay tuned as we follow this unfolding story!
Reference(s):
U.S. presses Japan to raise defense spending to 3.5% of GDP: media
cgtn.com
