16 August 2012

News Story: U.S. Report Warns of Japan ‘Drift,’ Urges Defense Boost


WASHINGTON — A group of former U.S. policymakers on Aug. 15 called for Japan to expand the scope of defense cooperation with Washington, saying that the two nations’ alliance needed momentum to overcome strains.

The study group, set up under the Center of Strategic and International Studies think tank, does not represent U.S. policy but similar reports have in the past been used as a basis for government planning.

The report warned of “a time of drift” between the United States and Japan, saying that the six-decade alliance between the countries is being reshaped by developments including the rapid rise of China.

Read the full story at DefenseNews