Japan strengthens security alliances with neighbors amid China tensions

Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have strengthened their security ties at a special summit in Tokyo, adopting a joint vision that emphasizes security and economic cooperation while respecting the rule of law. The leaders called for a rules-based Indo-Pacific region that is free and open, and stressed the importance of upholding international law. Japan has been rapidly building up its military and expanding its military partnerships to counter China's growing assertiveness in the region. Japan also signed bilateral agreements with Malaysia and Indonesia to bolster their maritime security capabilities. However, ASEAN countries are not in lockstep in their stance toward China, with many having strong ties and being reluctant to choose sides.