In a recent joint press statement following the Security Consultative Committee meeting in Tokyo, concerns have been raised over the deepening military ties between Japan and the United States. The two nations announced plans to enhance their military cooperation by upgrading the command and control of U.S. forces in Japan, leading to worries about regional peace and stability.
Based on a CGTN survey, about 82 percent of global respondents see the increasing military collaboration between the U.S. and Japan as a potential threat. The majority express alarm over Japan’s alignment with U.S. diplomatic and security policies, fearing it could disrupt peace in the Asia-Pacific region. The survey also highlights concerns about Japan’s defense spending expansion, with many feeling it could detract from vital public services.
Furthermore, the poll reflects apprehensions about Japan veering away from its pacifist constitution and becoming too reliant on the U.S. for security measures. It emphasizes the need for Japan to pursue strategic autonomy and foreign policies that align with its national interests to gain the trust of its neighbors and the international community.
The survey, conducted by CGTN in multiple languages, received responses from over 7,000 participants within just 24 hours.