Editorial

17:04 JST, February 10, 2025

The international state of affairs is in turmoil. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is the second state leader whom U.S. President Donald Trump, who has been one of the factors intensifying the turmoil, has met in person since taking office.

At their meeting, which drew international attention, the two leaders agreed to strengthen the Japan-U.S. alliance, as well as on other matters, in a way that was largely in line with Japan’s expectations. The Japan-U.S. relationship has entered a new era, with the alliance set to contribute to peace and stability not only in the Indo-Pacific region but around the world.

Ishiba and Trump talked in Washington for nearly two hours, during which time they affirmed their commitment to working together in a wide range of areas, such as security and the economy.

At a joint press conference after the meeting, Trump said, “We will extend the full strength of American deterrence capabilities in defense of our friend and ally — 100%.” He added that Japan and the United States will work “closely together to maintain peace and security.” Ishiba said in response that Japan, “as an ally of the United States, is ready to share responsibilities and to play its role.”

Since his inauguration, Trump, who has called for a policy of “America First,” has carried out diplomacy in a way that could been seen as downplaying the importance of alliances, such as by threatening to........

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