Why is Kishida's visit so important?

Japan's containment of China is a critical interest for the country, given its status as the world's third largest economy and a key regional player. Japan has both the desire and the ability to contain China, supported by its economic, political, diplomatic, and military capabilities. Since 2017, Japan has contributed significantly to the revival of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD).

Originally created in 2004 by the USA, India, Japan, and Australia to address natural disasters, the revived format of QUAD now focuses on developing a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region based on common values and interests such as the rule of law, freedom of navigation, territorial integrity and sovereignty, peaceful resolution of territorial disputes, and freedom of trade. This partnership serves as an effective anti-Chinese measure.

“Since 2017, Japan has contributed significantly to the revival of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD)”

In November 2020, the QUAD states conducted the "Malabar" naval exercise in Indian territorial waters with the participation of two aircraft carrier groups. The aim of this exercise was to practice joint actions to defend against China's "expansionist and aggressive policy." Currently, they have joint projects for the development and production of weapons.

The revival of QUAD, along with the formation of AUKUS in 2021, a defense alliance of Australia, Britain, and the United States aimed at countering China's attempts to act aggressively in the South China Sea, is a major concern for the Chinese. It also presents an opportunity for us to secure India's long-term support in our struggle.

“The revival of QUAD, along with the formation of AUKUS in 2021, a defense alliance of Australia, Britain, and the United States aimed at countering China's attempts to act aggressively in the South China Sea, is a major concern for the Chinese. It also presents an opportunity for us to secure India's long-term support in our struggle”

Other countries in the region view Japan, India, and the US as a counterbalance to China's ambitions. Vietnam, despite experiencing past grievances from both the US and Japan, is striving to establish an economic and political partnership with them. Vietnam sees China as an actual threat due to ongoing disputes over the South China Sea and historical acts of aggression. Similarly, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Republic of Korea, and Thailand share comparable positions to Vietnam, although the Republic of Korea benefits from American military bases.

By aligning with Japan, we can attract new allies and create challenges for both Russia and China in the region. If China becomes preoccupied with its own problems, it will have less ability to support Russian aggression, which is advantageous for us.

Regarding assistance in our war effort, Japan can support us in terms of funds, equipment, and reconstruction aid. However, it is important to temper expectations as the primary battlefield for Japan is in the Pacific Ocean. And potentially for the whole world as well. 

Source

About the author.  Yuriy Bohdanov, publicist, strategic communications specialist 

The editors do not always share the opinions expressed by the blog authors.