“[Chief Cabinet Secretary] Kihara said that while the 10-year-old FOIP strategy’s ‘fundamental principles’ of freedom, upholding the rule of law as well as respect for diversity, inclusiveness and openness will remain intact, Japan needed to expand the scope of the policy to meet the challenges of today.”
” ‘Compared with when FOIP was first proposed, the international situation and security environment surrounding Japan has become significantly more severe,’ he said. ‘New challenges have emerged, such as economic security and international competition surrounding emerging technologies that did not exist at that time.’ ”
“While avoiding singling out China, the revised strategy is expected to establish three pillars: strengthening economic foundations, promoting economic growth through problem-solving and enhancing security cooperation, the Yomiuri daily reported Monday, citing unidentified government sources. It said this would include plans to diversify supply chains for critical minerals, promoting joint development of artificial intelligence and incorporating cooperation via Japan’s military aid program known as official security assistance.”
“On the economic front, the revised policy could also explicitly mention Japan’s push to promote the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) trade pact. Such a move would be seen as a counterweight to the protectionist policies of U.S. President Donald Trump, who has threatened both rivals and allies with tariffs.”