Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio recently met with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin, despite the possibility of meeting at the NATO Summit in Washington, D.C. This effort highlights the importance of the bilateral relationship under the Kishida administration. The Japan-Germany Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement and the establishment of an economic security consultative framework signify a strengthening cooperative relationship.
For example, the German Air Force trained with the Japanese Air Self Defense Force in Hokkaido in July, while the German Navy is set to dock in Tokyo Bay soon. However, both Kishida and Scholz face challenges in fulfilling their responsibilities effectively amid low domestic approval ratings and criticisms of their leadership capabilities. Japan has outlined its national security priorities, including strengthening its missile capabilities in response to China’s threat. On the other hand, Germany lacks a consensus on necessary capabilities.
The U.S. and Germany agreed to deploy long-range missiles, such as Tomahawks and supersonic missiles, in Germany from 2026, echoing Japan’s “counter-strike capabilities.” This move aims to enhance Western deterrence. The deployment stirred memories of past Cold War tensions in Germany, raising concerns of a potential arms race. Both Germany and Japan play crucial roles in shaping global security policies.
IWAMA Yoko is a professor at the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS).