The European Union is looking to forge security and defense industry partnerships with Japan and South Korea to collaborate on joint development of military equipment, according to a senior EU commission official as reported by the Nikkei. This would mark the EU’s first security and defense-related collaboration with Asian nations, with plans to reach a ministerial-level agreement with Japan by the end of the year.
Japan, facing a challenging security environment, has been increasing its defense industry capabilities in response to threats from neighbors China and North Korea. Recent collaborations include a treaty with Britain and Italy to develop an advanced fighter jet and discussions with the United States for deeper defense industry cooperation.
Tokyo is also seeking to counter China’s maritime assertiveness, conducting military exercises in the South China Sea with the U.S., Canada, and the Philippines. The EU’s potential partnerships with Japan and South Korea reflect a growing focus on security and defense cooperation in the region, aimed at enhancing military capabilities and addressing security challenges.
© Thomson Reuters 2024.