Trump's Ambassador Nominee Urges Japan to Increase Financial Support for US Forces

Synopsis

George Glass, nominated by President Trump as the next US Ambassador to Tokyo, indicated a need for Japan to increase its financial support for hosting US forces in light of rising military costs from China. He emphasized the importance of strengthening US-Japan relations and addressing economic challenges.

Key Takeaways

George Glass stresses the need for Japan to increase funding for US forces.
The US-Japan alliance is at a critical point, with a review of agreements due in 2027.
Concerns over China's military advancements affect defense costs.
Economic discussions, including tariffs, will be prioritized.
The alliance marks its 65th anniversary in 2025.

Tokyo, March 14 (NationPress) – The nominee for the next US Ambassador to Tokyo, George Glass, appointed by President Donald Trump, stated that it is imperative for Washington to encourage Japan to increase its financial contributions for hosting US forces in the region.

Discussing a crucial agreement set to be reviewed in 2027, Glass remarked that the US-Japan alliance is currently at a peak. He pledged to dedicate himself to fortifying these bilateral relations if confirmed. In light of the security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific, he voiced concerns regarding the military advancements of China, as reported by local media.

During his Senate confirmation hearing, Glass pointed out that Japan accommodates 60,000 US troops and contributes approximately 1.4 billion US dollars annually to support the US military presence. However, he noted that the enhancement of Chinese military capabilities has made countermeasures against Beijing significantly more costly.

“The necessities for upgrading weapons systems and enhancing command-and-control alongside Japanese forces are very expensive endeavors,” he explained.

“Thus, it is clear we must engage in discussions with Japan regarding an increase in this support,” Japan Today reported Glass as saying.

The bilateral Special Measures Agreement defines Japan's financial obligations for hosting US troops. Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi addressed a press conference, stating, “While we do not wish to prematurely judge how the financial responsibilities should be divided after the current Special Measures Agreement expires, we will continue to evaluate the suitable burden to be shouldered by Japan.”

Glass also highlighted other challenges in US-Japan relations, particularly economic matters. “If confirmed, I will have difficult discussions concerning tariffs and our trade deficit with Japan,” he asserted. He acknowledged Japan's commitment to enhancing its defense budget, which would bolster both nations' security objectives and reinforce deterrence in the Indo-Pacific.

Stressing the significance of the US-Japan Alliance, Glass mentioned that both countries will commemorate its 65th anniversary in 2025, marking it as a foundation of peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. “Our shared values promote collaboration within the G7, the Quad, trilateral efforts with South Korea and the Philippines, and much more,” he concluded, as per a statement from the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee.