Global Issues
Statement by United States Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel on Japan's Defense Policy
Today, Prime Minister Kishida ushered in a new era in the defense of democracy. I want to congratulate him on his leadership in meeting the strategic challenge in a comprehensive fashion. In short, he has put a capital “D” next to Japan’s deterrence.
Along with the decision to increase defense spending to 43 trillion yen, the Prime Minister is making a clear, unambiguous strategic statement about Japan’s role as a security provider in the Indo-Pacific. He has enhanced Japan’s standing in service of its diplomatic and political engagement with allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific and in Europe.