Japan's Self-Reliant Defense Budget: Rejecting External Pressure

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba reinforced the country's autonomy in setting its defense budget, rebuffing calls from U.S. Pentagon nominee Elbridge Colby for increased spending to counter regional threats like China. While Japan seeks to enhance its military capabilities, it prioritizes quality over budget size.

The Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has affirmed the nation's independence in determining its defense budget, dismissing a U.S. official's proposal for increased expenditure against regional threats.

Speaking to Parliament, Ishiba said, "Japan decides its defense budget by itself," after Elbridge Colby, nominated for a top Pentagon role, suggested Tokyo spend more. Japan's plan currently involves doubling its defense budget to about 2% of GDP over five years, targeting increased threats from China, Russia, and North Korea.

The Japanese government emphasizes quality in defense capabilities over sheer budget size. "What we think important is the substance of defense capabilities, not the volume or GDP ratio," stated Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi.

(With inputs from agencies.)