Japan, NATO vow to strengthen ties amid global security challenges

NATO permanent representatives met Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi on Thursday, with both sides vowing to strengthen ties, the Foreign Ministry said.

During the meeting in Tokyo, Motegi stressed that the security of the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions is "inseparable.”

He further said cooperation with allies and like-minded countries is increasingly important.

The two sides exchanged views on Russia, the Ukraine war, challenges in the Indo-Pacific related to China, North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, and developments in the Middle East, including the situation in Iran, according to the statement.

NATO representatives recognized the increasing importance of Japan-NATO cooperation and expressed their intention to further bolster ties.

The NATO delegation arrived on Wednesday.

Japan is among the oldest American allies in the Asia-Pacific region, hosting more than 50,000 American troops, along with bases and other military assets.

Last week, Japanese public broadcaster NHK reported that about 30 NATO ambassadors are expected to meet Japanese Cabinet ministers and discuss issues “such as how to deal with China, which has been strengthening military ties with Russia.”

The NATO representatives last visited Tokyo in 2023.

After Japan, the delegation will visit South Korea.