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In the face of growing international tensions and the complexity of the global scenario, Japan and the European Union have formalized an important step forward in cooperation on security and defence.
In Tokyo, Josep Borrell, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Policy, and Takeshi Iwaya, his Japanese counterpart, announced the signing of a new security partnership that will be operational starting in January. An agreement that was immediately defined by Borrell as a “historic and timely” moment, as it marks the entry of the EU as an active player and strategic ally in the Indo-Pacific, a region where challenges to stability and security are multiplying.
A security pact under the banner of military and technological collaboration
The new EU-Japan partnership provides for the intensification of joint military exercises, which will allow the Japanese armed forces and members of EU missions to familiarize themselves with each other’s operating procedures. Furthermore, a high-level strategic dialogue and enhanced cooperation are foreseen to address emerging threats, including cyber and hybrid threats. This new synergy aims to establish an alliance that pools resources and expertise to respond promptly to emergencies. Commenting on the signature, Borrell stressed that in recent years, relations between the EU and Japan have become “stronger than ever”, thanks to the convergence of their respective visions for a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific. This partnership, in fact, is part of a broader framework of EU alliances in the region, in line with the European strategy that increasingly looks to Asia as a key area for global stability.
The North Korean threat and the need for international cooperation
The security context in the Indo-Pacific is today made even more fragile by the actions of North Korea, which continues to challenge the international community with the launch of intercontinental ballistic missiles. Just a few days ago, Pyongyang declared the success of a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Hwasong-19, described as “the most powerful strategic missile in the world”. This new development comes as North Korea also confirms its support for Russia in the conflict in Ukraine, heightening international concerns. Borrell met with Japanese Defence Minister General Nakatani, both condemning the recent North Korean missile test and reaffirming the importance of the new EU-Japan pact to address threats that transcend national borders. According to Borrell, enhanced cooperation on maritime security and cyber threats becomes vital in a context that presents increasingly global and interconnected risks.
Beijing’s warning: avoid provocations and respect regional balances
China’s response to the signing of the EU-Japan partnership was not long in coming. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian expressed his hope that the new cooperation between Europe and Japan will not be directed against “third parties” and will promote “regional peace and stability”. Lin also urged Japan to “learn lessons from history” and to maintain a cautious attitude, respecting the concerns of neighbouring countries. Beijing’s warning reflects the delicate balance of power in East Asia, where territorial tensions in the South and East China Seas continue to be a critical point. China therefore calls on the EU not to take sides in regional disputes and instead to contribute to a more stable and balanced security environment, avoiding compromising its relations with Beijing and further complicating the regional scenario.
The Partnership’s Implications for the Indo-Pacific and Europe
The Indo-Pacific is a strategic area where the economic and military interests of some of the world’s major powers are concentrated, and the new EU-Japan pact underlines Europe’s commitment to a crucial area for global trade. In fact, over 40% of EU trade passes through the South China Sea, one of the most contested areas on the planet. Strengthening ties with Japan, one of the region’s leading countries and a historical ally of the United States, could be a means for the EU to protect its trade routes, promote the values of freedom and democracy and ensure a stable Indo-Pacific. The new partnership also reflects Europe’s recognition of the new global security dynamics, which are pushing the EU to look beyond its continental borders and consolidate strategic alliances in other critical areas of the world. In an increasingly polarised international context, where security challenges are multiplying, EU-Japan cooperation can therefore act as a deterrent against potential escalations.
The Japan-EU security and defence partnership is a key piece in an increasingly complex geopolitical puzzle. The pact reaffirms Europe’s role as a global player and offers Japan an additional alliance that goes beyond its historic ties with the United States. However, caution remains necessary to avoid fuelling tensions with other regional powers, especially China, and to contribute to a balance that promotes security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. Through this cooperation, Japan and the EU are sending a clear message to the world: the need for joint commitment to address increasingly pressing global challenges and to preserve the values of security, stability and international peace.
Alessandro Fiorentino