On Friday, September 13th, Canadian Defense Minister Bill Blair stated that Canada is discussing joining the expanded AUKUS agreement between the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia, which aims to counter the growing military influence of the Chinese Communist Party in the Asia-Pacific region.
Canada has expressed interest in joining the second pillar of AUKUS, which involves cooperation in developing new military technologies including artificial intelligence and quantum computing. However, no negotiation details have been disclosed so far.
During an interview in Tokyo, Blair mentioned that discussions among countries like Canada and Japan are ongoing regarding specific projects, which cover the processes and platforms involved.
The initial phase of AUKUS involved three core alliance countries – Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, with the main goal being assistance from the UK and US in helping Australia develop nuclear submarine technology. Blair stated, “I will wait for their (US, UK, and Australia) decisions, but I am very optimistic.”
This marks Blair’s first visit to Japan as Defense Minister. He arrived in Tokyo from South Korea, which is also in negotiations to join the second pillar of AUKUS.
On Friday, Blair met with Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara in Tokyo. They discussed AUKUS and the potential for collaboration between the alliance and Japan.
The two ministers also talked about the recent incidents where Chinese military aircraft intruded into Japanese airspace on August 26, and a Chinese naval survey ship entered Japanese waters on August 31. These events led to Japan officially lodging protests against China.
Blair mentioned that the upcoming G7 Defense Ministers’ Meeting in Italy next month may address the growing concerns about Chinese military activities, shared by Canada, Japan, the US, and other countries.
Canada is looking to play a greater security role in Asia, with a focus on strengthening ties with Japan and South Korea.
Posting on social media platform X on Friday, Blair highlighted discussions with Japanese counterparts on Canada’s increasing defense presence in the region. Earlier this month, Japan conducted the KAEDEX exercise with the Canadian Navy.
With Canada expanding its defense commitments domestically and internationally, the country is increasing military spending.
Blair announced, “Next year, my defense budget will increase by 27% compared to this year. Frankly, in the next three to four years, our defense spending will double.”