Japan scrambles to secure US commitment as Trump considers direct China talks

Fearing that US President Donald Trump might bypass Japan and negotiate security matters directly with China, analysts say Tokyo is scrambling to keep Washington firmly anchored in the Asia-Pacific. Kei Koga, an associate professor in the public policy and global affairs programme at Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University, said Japan’s primary objective was to secure the “minimum necessary commitments” from the US. “[These include] reassurance regarding the US-Japan alliance, the defence of Japan, and a sustained US presence in the Indo-Pacific,” Koga said, noting these commitments were made under the first Trump administration and Tokyo was seeking to ensure their continuity. “Ishiba’s initial aim is, at least, to secure verbal commitments from Trump,” Koga said, particularly on maintaining Washington’s diplomatic and military influence and visibility.

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