Japan's proposal for an "Asian NATO" has emerged as a significant topic in regional security discussions, particularly under the leadership of newly elected Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. This initiative is primarily aimed at countering the growing assertiveness of China and North Korea in the Asia-Pacific region.

Shigeru Ishiba, a former defence minister, articulated his vision for an Asian version of NATO in a commentary for the Hudson Institute shortly before assuming office on October 1, 2024. He emphasized that the geopolitical climate in Asia is precarious, with potential conflicts looming due to aggressive actions from China and North Korea. Ishiba's proposal aims to establish a formal security alliance that could unify existing defence frameworks among countries like Japan, South Korea, Australia, and the United States.

Key Differences Between NATO And ASIAN NATO

Unlike NATO, which is a formal military alliance with binding commitments for mutual defence, the QUAD lacks a treaty-based structure or a formal secretariat. QUAD members do not have mutual defence obligations.

The QUAD focuses on a broader range of issues beyond military cooperation, including economic ties, supply chain resilience, and health initiatives like vaccine distribution. This multifaceted approach contrasts with NATO's primary focus on collective defence.

India has explicitly rejected the notion of the QUAD as an Asian NATO. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized that India does not share treaty alliances like Japan and Australia do with the U.S., framing India's participation in the QUAD as part of a "multi-alignment" strategy rather than a formal alliance.

The response to Ishiba's proposal has been mixed:

Some analysts and officials in Japan see this move as essential for enhancing collective security in East Asia. The U.S. has previously engaged in multilateral security partnerships in the region, which could support Ishiba's vision if properly aligned with American interests.

The Chinese government has strongly opposed the idea, labelling it as an attempt by Japan to divert attention from its military expansion and urging Tokyo to refrain from forming exclusive military alliances. Chinese officials have characterized the proposal as a "self-humiliating radical idea" that could exacerbate regional tensions.

Countries like South Korea and India have expressed caution regarding their involvement in such an alliance. South Korean officials have indicated that it is premature to discuss participation in an Asian NATO, while Indian leaders have historically maintained a non-aligned stance towards military treaties.

Despite initial enthusiasm, Ishiba's proposal appears to be losing momentum. The lack of strong support from the U.S. and scepticism from neighbouring countries have led to doubts about its feasibility. Following widespread criticism and a general election scheduled for later this month, Ishiba has seemingly shelved the idea temporarily. Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya has suggested that any discussions about such an alliance could be considered in the future but emphasized that it should not exclude any regional countries.

Japan's push for an "Asian NATO" reflects a strategic response to perceived threats from China and North Korea, its realization faces significant hurdles due to regional dynamics and international relations.