Japan Strengthens Regional Relationships to Counter Chinese Agression

Japan has taken a number of steps in order to shore up its relationships with other East Asian countries as China takes a more aggressive posture in the region.

Reuters reports that Philippine President Benigno Aquino will visit the Japanese capital of Tokyo for security talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The talks are scheduled to take place from June 2-5.

Among the topics of discussion will be the start of negotiations on agreements that allow the transfer of military technology and equipment. The two are also expected to lay the groundwork for talks that may allow Japanese military personnel to visit the Philippines so that it is easier for both countries to carry out military training and exercises in the future.

In addition to strengthening their relationship with the Philippines, the Japanese will participate in US-Australian military exercises. The Guardian reports that it is the first time Japan will participate in the exercises, known as Talisman Sabre.

The exercises take place every other year and cover a variety of strategic disciplines such as amphibious landings and counterterrorism operations. The exercises will begin on June 7 and take place near the Australian cities of Rockhampton and Darwin, which is home to a large US military base.

The Japanese contribution to the exercises will be small, consisting of only 40 soldiers, but Japan's participation is primarily symbolic and meant to send a signal to China, which has made territorial claims in both the East China and South China Seas that have alarmed its neighbors.

As China builds islands, radar installations, and airstrips in the South China Sea while making claims in the East China Sea that conflict with Japan, nations in the region have been forging tighter bonds.

Reuters notes that Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak was in the Philippines last week and both countries agreed to create a strategic partnership and exchange military equipment.