Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba took a cautious approach during his recent diplomatic visit to Laos, avoiding discussion of his proposal for an Asian NATO amid China’s growing influence. Despite facing upcoming national elections, Ishiba is expected to maintain a careful stance on diplomacy and defense policies.
Although he previously campaigned on the idea of creating an Asian military bloc, Ishiba has faced skepticism from regional countries and the United States. The proposal has been criticized for potentially escalating tensions in the area and forcing Asian states to take sides.
As Ishiba works to lead his party to victory in the upcoming elections, experts suggest that emphasizing the Japan-U.S. alliance will provide reassurance both domestically and internationally. While Ishiba has toned down his promotion of the Asian NATO concept, he remains committed to the idea for the future.
While the concept of an Asian NATO remains uncertain, Ishiba’s long-term goal may depend on his political strength following the elections. Despite current challenges, some experts believe the idea could gain traction in the future due to concerns about China’s influence in the region.
© KYODO