US and Japan Express Concern Over China's Nuclear Force Expansion in 'Extended Deterrence Dialogue'

The United States and Japan expressed concerns and intentions to check China's nuclear force expansion in the results of their extended deterrence (nuclear umbrella) dialogue.

The U.S. Department of State, in a press release detailing the results of the U.S.-Japan Extended Deterrence Dialogue (EDD) held on the 13th and 14th (local time) at the Francis E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming, stated, "We shared assessments regarding North Korea's continued development of its nuclear and ballistic missile programs, increased military cooperation with Russia, and China's accelerated development of nuclear weapons lacking transparency."

The choice of Francis E. Warren Air Force Base, one of the three major strategic missile bases in the United States, as the meeting venue is analyzed to reflect the intention to check China, Russia, and North Korea.

The State Department explained, "The U.S. and Japan reaffirmed the necessity to acknowledge China's nuclear weapons expansion that undermines regional and global peace and security," adding, "Both countries expressed disappointment over China's decision to suspend consultations with the U.S. on ways to reduce strategic risks."

It also stated, "The United States reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the regional deterrence effect of its nuclear assets."

The State Department conveyed that both sides explored ways to enhance joint deterrence to defend against anticipated attacks and to deter adversaries from using nuclear weapons.

In particular, as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council recognized for nuclear weapons development and possession, the U.S. and Japan publicly emphasized their intention to check China's nuclear force expansion. The U.S.-Japan Extended Deterrence Dialogue has been held regularly since 2010, with the most recent consultation taking place in Japan last December.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.