Tue Apr 08 16:49:03 UTC 2025: ## NATO Chief Warns of China’s Military Buildup During Japan Visit

**Tokyo, April 8, 2025** – NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte concluded a visit to Japan today, issuing a stark warning about China’s rapidly expanding military capabilities. Describing the growth as “staggering,” Rutte emphasized the need for increased cooperation between NATO and Japan in the face of escalating regional tensions.

Rutte’s visit, which included meetings with Japanese Defence Minister Gen Nakatani and upcoming meetings with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, focused on strengthening the strategic partnership between NATO and Japan. He highlighted shared values and common challenges posed by China, North Korea, and Russia, whose increased military exercises and cooperation threaten global stability.

The NATO chief’s comments come amidst a backdrop of growing US pressure on both European NATO allies and Asia-Pacific partners to bolster their military spending to counter China’s influence and contain North Korea. Rutte clarified that increased NATO involvement in the Asia-Pacific region isn’t about invoking Article 5 (collective defense), but rather about projecting power and mutual support amongst alliance members.

Japan, currently undertaking a significant military spending increase, echoed NATO’s concerns. Rutte further advocated for moving beyond symbolic partnerships towards practical cooperation, including enhanced information sharing and defense-industrial collaboration, building upon existing ties with Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand. This push for concrete action follows a recent announcement of a new security and defense partnership between Japan and the European Union. Rutte’s visit underscores a growing convergence of strategic interests between NATO and Japan in navigating the complex security landscape of the Asia-Pacific region.

Read More