US military command in Japan to be revamped

The plan would strengthen operational planning and military exercises between the two countries, the FT reported on Sunday, citing people familiar with the situation.

It is due to be announced at the White House on April 10, when Biden is scheduled to host Kishida in a formal event that will include a lavish state dinner and a policy meeting, the newspaper said.

Japan is a close ally and a key component of the US strategy toward China, North Korea and other Asian security issues.

The White House, the US National Security Council and the State Department did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment. The Japanese government could not immediately be reached for comment.

Washington has strongly endorsed a major military build-up by Japan as military and security activity between the US and its major Asian allies has strengthened.

More than a year ago, Japan pledged to double its defense spending to two per cent of its gross domestic product and to procure missiles that can strike ships or land-based targets 1000km away.

Japan has recently called China's rapidly expanding military power a "serious concern" for Japan and the international community.

Late last year Japan appointed a serving government official to act as its de facto defence attache in Taiwan, elevating security ties in a move likely to anger China, which claims the strategic island as its own.

Japan also angered China earlier this year by congratulating Taiwan's new president-elect, Lai Ching-te.

Japan, like most countries, does not have official diplomatic relations with Taiwan, a precondition for establishing diplomatic ties with China.

Even so, Tokyo has pursued closer ties with Taipei because of Japan's proximity and historical ties to the island, its alliance with the United States - Taiwan's most important backer - as well as recent tensions with China.

Australian Associated Press