Japan Seeks to Strengthen Defence Ties with ASEAN Amid China Concerns

Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi has pledged to increase cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to help Tokyo defend its territory and territorial waters amid concerns over China’s aggressive actions in the region. Speaking at an annual meeting with ASEAN foreign ministers in Manila on Wednesday, Motegi described the 11-member bloc as the core for realising Japan’s vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific. He vowed to enhance cooperation with ASEAN on economic security, including critical mineral supply chains, as well as support in areas such as artificial intelligence and disaster relief. “Our goal is to build a stronger and more prosperous region together. We want to continue strengthening this relationship built on mutual trust,” Motegi said. Japan, which alongside the US, Australia, and India forms the Quad group, reaffirmed its commitment to closer cooperation with ASEAN as a “comprehensive strategic partner.” Quad ministers stated they would expand collaboration on maritime security, critical and emerging technologies, and humanitarian assistance with Southeast Asian nations. The meeting took place less than two months after the previous Quad foreign ministers’ gathering in New Delhi, which sought to underscore the forum’s unity as US President Donald Trump weighs its importance under his ‘America First’ policy. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is keen to hold the first Quad leaders’ summit since September 2024 before the end of the year. The Quad is widely seen as a balancing effort against China’s growing influence.