Takaichi Visits Australia to Bolster Economic, Defense Ties

Japan’s prime minister is visiting Australia to strengthen ties with one of her country’s strongest allies, as she seeks to build on an updated regional strategy that faces challenges from both Beijing and Washington.

Sanae Takaichi touched down late Sunday in Canberra for the three-day visit, which will focus on defense, critical minerals and broader economic security. The two countries have grown increasingly concerned about the changing security and economic environment in the region, with Japan taking a more assertive military stance and looking to build economic ties and stable supply chains with nations such as Vietnam.