Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is set to address U.S. lawmakers on Capitol Hill on Thursday, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a strong partnership between Japan and the United States amidst tensions in the Asia-Pacific region and skepticism in Congress regarding U.S. engagement abroad.
Kishida's visit to Washington comes after meeting with President Joe Biden and participating in the Quad summit, a strategic alliance between the U.S., Japan, Australia, and India aimed at countering China's increasing military presence in the region. During his address, Kishida is expected to discuss the future of the bilateral relationship between Japan and the U.S.
His audience will include Republican lawmakers advocating for a more restrained U.S. foreign policy, aligning with the 'America First' approach championed by former President Donald Trump. The Republican-controlled House has delayed a $95 billion foreign security package that includes support for Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan, and aid to civilians in conflict zones like Gaza and Ukraine.
While the package does not directly benefit Japan, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell highlighted the global challenges posed by China, Russia, and Iran, underscoring the need for international cooperation against threats to democracy.
Japan has actively supported Ukraine's defense efforts and provided humanitarian aid to Gaza, positioning itself as a crucial ally in a region marked by Chinese assertiveness and North Korean nuclear ambitions.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer praised the visit as an opportunity to strengthen the diplomatic and security ties between the two nations, building on decades of collaboration.
Kishida's participation in a U.S.-Japan-Philippines summit further underscores efforts to enhance regional cooperation in response to China's aggressive behavior.
In Congress, House Speaker Mike Johnson has faced challenges advancing the foreign security package amid Republican divisions over support for Ukraine. Despite internal party tensions, Johnson is working to move the legislation forward in the coming weeks.
Kishida's visit coincides with domestic challenges in Japan, including a decline in his approval ratings due to a political funds scandal within his party and economic setbacks that have seen Japan slip to the world's fourth-largest economy.
This address to Congress marks the first time a Japanese prime minister has spoken before lawmakers since 2015, with Kishida becoming the sixth foreign leader to address Congress during President Biden's tenure.
