Japanese PM Takaichi Promises Military Buildup Amid Rising Tensions

Tokyo, Oct 24 (AP) Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, in her inaugural major policy address, has committed to further accelerating Japan's military buildup and spending. She aims to expedite the upgrade of the country's security strategy as tensions with China, North Korea, and Russia escalate.

Takaichi took office on Tuesday, becoming Japan’s first female leader, following months of political uncertainty and internal party power struggles, which resulted in the ruling coalition losing its majority in both houses of parliament.

She announced on Friday that her administration will meet an annual military spending goal of 2% of the gross domestic product by March, moving the target forward from the initial deadline of 2027. She plans to revise the security strategy sooner than expected, aiming for completion by the end of 2026. This update is a response to changing security conditions, including Russia's invasion of Ukraine and ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

“The free, open, and stable international order to which we were accustomed is being violently disrupted amid historic changes in power balance and intensifying geopolitical competition,” Takaichi stated in parliament. “Military activities and other actions from neighboring countries such as China, North Korea, and Russia are causing serious concerns.”

She emphasized the necessity for Japan to proactively enhance its defense capabilities. Takaichi's pledge comes shortly before US President Donald Trump's visit to Tokyo from October 27-29, where she will likely confront demands for increased defense spending and acquisition of American military equipment. The meeting with Trump will be a significant diplomatic challenge, followed by two other regional summits.

Takaichi expressed her intention to discuss reinforcing the Japan-US alliance and establishing a personal relationship with Trump based on trust.

While acknowledging the need for a constructive and stable relationship with China, Takaichi recognized existing "security concerns" between the two nations. Her hawkish stance and perspectives on wartime history, as well as her previous visits to the Yasukuni Shrine—which is controversial for Asian countries that suffered under Japanese colonial rule—could strain relations with Beijing, experts warn.

The forthcoming security strategy upgrade might involve assigning more offensive roles to Japan's Self-Defense Forces, loosening arms export restrictions, and a rise in military spending, though she did not provide details on funding.

Takaichi will need support from the opposition to accomplish her pledges or policies, given her minority government's position.

Domestically, she must address rising prices, stagnant wages, and regain conservative backing. Her Liberal Democratic Party’s new alliance with the right-wing Japan Innovation Party, replacing a centrist Komeito coalition, raises concerns about a rightward shift in Japan's politics.

She acknowledged Japan's need for foreign workers to compensate for a declining and aging population but emphasized accepting only those who adhere to the rules.

“Unlawful activities and rule violations by some foreigners are causing unease and a sense of unfairness among Japanese people,” Takaichi said. “The government will respond decisively. It’s not xenophobia.”

Takaichi appointed Economic Security Minister Kimi Onoda to intensify regulations on foreigners in Japan to ensure compliance and to explore possible regulations on land purchases by foreigners, many of whom are Chinese.

This move appeals to Japanese citizens frustrated with the "Japanese First" ideology of the far-right Sanseito party. This populist surge coincides with Japan facing a record influx of foreigners, needed to replenish its dwindling workforce.

Despite the rising foreign population, government data indicates that crime rates among foreigners in Japan have decreased. (AP) SKS SKS

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