NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg is keen on expanding joint drills with Japan in various areas to tackle security challenges of both Europe and Asia. Stoltenberg emphasized the importance of the partnership with Japan, especially in light of the Ukraine crisis, where various countries are enabling Russia’s actions.
During a recent summit in Washington marking NATO’s 75th anniversary, Stoltenberg highlighted the deepening cooperation between Japan and the alliance. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s consistent presence at high-level discussions reflects this growing partnership.
Stoltenberg expressed the desire to increase joint exercises with Japan in maritime and cyber domains to enhance coordination and strengthen defense capabilities. The alliance and Japan have agreed to conduct a joint drill in the Euro-Atlantic region by the end of the year, along with sharing confidential information more effectively.
As NATO members like Britain and Germany engage more with the Indo-Pacific region, joint defense exercises with Japan are on the rise. Stoltenberg welcomed Japan’s efforts to address disinformation and promote technological collaboration with NATO.
The NATO chief also raised concerns about North Korea’s role in providing military support to Russia during the war in Ukraine. While highlighting the alliance’s apprehensions regarding Russia’s potential support for North Korea’s missile and nuclear programs, Stoltenberg expressed interest in opening a NATO liaison office in Tokyo in the future.
In conclusion, the deepening cooperation between NATO and Japan reflects a shared commitment to addressing evolving security challenges in Europe and Asia through enhanced partnerships and joint exercises.
