Japan, EU Sign Historic Security Pact

On November 1, Japan and the European Union established their first security and defense partnership, aimed at enhancing military cooperation in the Indo-Pacific amid rising tensions with China, North Korea, and Russia. The agreement, announced by Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell during their strategic dialogue in Tokyo, includes provisions for joint military exercises, defense industry exchanges, and high-level dialogue. This historic pact marks the EU's first security partnership with an Indo-Pacific nation and reflects a growing concern over the implications of the conflict in Ukraine for regional stability. Borrell emphasized the need for partnerships in a world of increasing rivalries and threats, while Iwaya noted the interconnected nature of global security challenges. The partnership is seen as a significant step towards bolstering Japan's defense capabilities, which are set to increase as part of its new security strategy. Both sides expressed grave concern over the deepening military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, reinforcing their commitment to support Ukraine amidst these geopolitical tensions.