Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is making inroads in his push to build ties with Southeast Asian nations as he seeks a buffer against Chinese assertiveness while complementing Japan’s alliance with the U.S.
In recent months Cambodia sealed a defense deal with Japan and secured $135 million in infrastructure loans, Singapore expressed understanding for Abe’s efforts to boost his military, and Vietnam, a traditionally China ally, has warmed to Japan. The moves reflect a flurry of diplomatic activity by Abe, who visited 30 countries in his first year in office, including all 10 Association of Southeast Asian Nations members.
