Meeting Between Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and President Trump

Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba faces the challenge of building personal chemistry with President Trump to enhance the bilateral relationship between Japan and the U.S., despite Trump's concerns about allies taking advantage of the U.S. Ishiba is expected to address trade surplus issues, defense spending, and maintaining an equal alliance with the U.S. Japan also considers forming a middle power network with regional countries in case the U.S. shifts its commitment to the U.S.-Japan alliance.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's Address to Congress

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is set to address a joint meeting of Congress, following an upgrade in Japan's security alliance with the U.S. and ahead of a trilateral summit with the U.S. and Philippines. The visit aims to deepen diplomatic and security relationships between the countries.

U.S.-Japan Alliance and Military Presence in Okinawa

President Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida are discussing upgrades to their alliance, focusing on Okinawa which hosts 70% of U.S. military bases in Japan. The 12th Marine Littoral Regiment was established in Okinawa to enhance defense against adversaries like China. There are concerns about downsizing the Marines and focusing on island defense. The island's peace movement faces challenges due to the aging population and changing attitudes among young Okinawans.