On November 1, 2024, Japan announced an increase in its defense budget to 2% of its GDP, aligning with NATO goals. This decision is partly motivated by concerns over China's military expansion, which Japan perceives as a threat.
In a related development, Japan and the European Union (EU) unveiled a new security and defense agreement in Tokyo. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell described the pact as a historic and timely step. The agreement is expected to enhance joint military exercises, high-level dialogue, and cooperation in the defense industry.
Japanese Defense Minister Takeshi Iwaya emphasized that security in the Asia-Pacific region is closely linked to that of Europe and the Atlantic. Following his visit to Japan, Borrell plans to travel to South Korea, where discussions will focus on concerns regarding North Korea and its defense alliance with Russia.