मिसाइलें और चंद्रमा पर लैंडिंग: अमेरिका और जापान ने रक्षा संबंधों को बढ़ावा दिया

Missiles and moon landings: US and Japan boost defence ties

US President Joe Biden and Japan's Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida, have pledged to enhance defence cooperation amid potential threats from China. Their discussions during Kishida's Washington visit emphasized bolstering security measures, including expanding the air defence network to incorporate Australia.

Additionally, Biden revealed plans for a Japanese astronaut to join NASA's Artemis program, marking a significant milestone as the first non-American to set foot on the Moon. The announcements, made from the Rose Garden of the White House, underscored the substantial upgrade in the US-Japan alliance.

The talks, spanning approximately two hours, centred predominantly on defence issues in the Indo-Pacific region, alongside ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. North Korea, Taiwan, and China featured prominently, with Kishida stressing the importance of upholding an international order based on the rule of law and condemning unilateral attempts to alter the status quo through coercion or force.

Under the agreements, the US military will establish a joint command structure with Japanese counterparts, while joint efforts will focus on developing an air and missile defence network, including Australia. Tripartite military exercises involving UK forces were also on the agenda.

While affirming the commitment to address challenges posed by China, Kishida highlighted the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation with China on common issues. In the realm of space exploration, Japan will contribute a pressurized lunar rover, and two Japanese astronauts will participate in NASA's Artemis missions, with the prospect of a Japanese astronaut becoming the first non-American to land on the Moon.

Addressing a welcome ceremony, Biden emphasized the profound friendship between the US and Japan. Discussions also touched on Japan's Nippon Steel's recent acquisition of US Steel, with both leaders expressing hopes for positive outcomes.

Biden pledged support for American workers and reiterated the enduring strength of the US-Japan alliance. As Japan remains the largest foreign investor in the US, with a substantial number of Americans employed by Japanese firms, Kishida emphasized the desire to further solidify the mutually beneficial relationship.

The visit culminated in a grand state dinner, where both leaders toasted the enduring bond between their nations, echoing President Kennedy's sentiment on the Pacific Ocean's unifying role.

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