Key points from NATO Chief Mark Rutte's visit to Japan:

• Rutte describes China's military expansion as "staggering."
• NATO aims to strengthen ties with Japan amidst growing regional threats.
• The US pressures NATO members to increase military spending due to concerns over China and North Korea.

During a visit to Japan, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed concerns regarding China's military expansion, describing it as "staggering." This visit, which began on Tuesday, is intended to enhance NATO's presence and influence in the Asia-Pacific region. Rutte emphasized the necessity of not being naive about China's military developments, highlighting significant investments being made in the defense industry and capabilities.

As part of his schedule, Rutte visited the Yokosuka naval base and met with key Japanese officials, including Defense Minister Gen Nakatani. Rutte stated, “NATO and Japan share the same values, and we face many of the same challenges,” while advocating for a stronger alliance in today's increasingly dangerous global landscape.

Concerns about military activities by China, North Korea, and Russia have prompted discussions around bolstering defense mechanisms, with Rutte insisting that “what happens in the Euro-Atlantic matters for the Indo-Pacific and vice versa.” Citing ongoing shifts, Rutte underlined Japan's plans to double its military spending in response to evolving threats.

This strategic visit coincides with US President Donald Trump's ongoing push for NATO allies to increase military spending as he calls for strengthened defenses against China and North Korea. Rutte noted the importance of NATO's involvement without invoking the alliance's Article 5—indicating a need for enhanced readiness and support among member nations without formal military obligations.

NATO has been actively strengthening ties with regional partners, including Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand, also known as the "IP4." Rutte emphasized a desire for this partnership to evolve beyond mere discussions, stating, “We have to move beyond ... joint declarations ... let’s make it practical.”

In a significant development last November, Japan announced a new security and defense partnership with the European Union, further solidifying its defense posture amidst regional tensions.

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