New U.S. envoy urges stronger Japan alliance amid China tensions

The new U.S. ambassador to Japan has called for closer military coordination with Tokyo, framing the alliance as crucial amid rising regional tensions and ongoing trade disputes.

U.S. Ambassador to Japan George Glass says Washington and Tokyo must strengthen military cooperation in response to an increasingly "assertive China."

Glass, newly appointed to the post, arrived in Tokyo with his wife and emphasized the significance of his role, calling Japan "the United States’ most important ally, in the most important region in the world, at the most important time."

Japan has launched a historic military expansion in recent years, working closely with the U.S. on joint defense initiatives and force alignment.

At the same time, Tokyo is seeking relief from sweeping tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.

While a 90-day pause has temporarily shielded Japan from 24% across-the-board tariffs, other duties remain in effect — including a 10% base tariff and a 25% tax on imported cars, auto parts, steel, and aluminum.

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