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Japan Boosts Security Aid to Southeast Asia Amid China Concerns

1/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced plans to expand Japan's Official Security Assistance (OSA) scheme at the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur in October 2025.
The OSA, launched in April 2023, aims to enhance security cooperation with Southeast Asian nations through military support.
Japan's budget for the OSA will increase to 18.1 billion yen for the 2026 fiscal year, focusing on partnerships with Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos.
Experts believe the OSA will promote self-reliance among regional states and strengthen Japan's role as a security partner in the Indo-Pacific amid concerns over China's assertiveness.

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Story summary

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced plans to expand Japan's Official Security Assistance (OSA) scheme at the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur in October 2025.
The OSA, launched in April 2023, aims to enhance security cooperation with Southeast Asian nations through military support.
Japan's budget for the OSA will increase to 18.1 billion yen for the 2026 fiscal year, focusing on partnerships with Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos.
Experts believe the OSA will promote self-reliance among regional states and strengthen Japan's role as a security partner in the Indo-Pacific amid concerns over China's assertiveness.