Asian Nato: Why China is wary of AUKUS expansion
NEW DELHI: The potential broadening of the AUKUS military alliance to include Japan has sparked concerns among analysts about the pact morphing into an "Asian Nato," escalating militarism in Japan, and destabilizing the Asia-Pacific region.
The defense ministers of the US, UK, and Australia are set to discuss this expansion, focusing on joint development in areas such as quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and cyber technology.
During a summit in Washington on Wednesday, US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida are expected to discuss Japan's inclusion in AUKUS, marking a significant step that has raised eyebrows among regional countries and the international community over nuclear proliferation risks.
China has voiced grave concerns over the AUKUS expansion, with Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning criticizing the move. "We oppose relevant countries cobbling together exclusive groupings and stoking bloc confrontation," Mao said, emphasizing the need for Japan to heed historical lessons and exercise caution on military and security issues.
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