Trilateral Cooperation to Strengthen Extended Deterrence in Northeast Asia

Abstract

Objective: Building on the results of previous trilateral meetings among the U.S., Japan, and Republic of Korea (ROK), this initiative will continue to explore each country’s specific questions about the U.S. extended deterrent in a changing regional security environment. This strategic dialogue will investigate opportunities and obstacles to U.S.-Japan-ROK trilateral cooperation that could enhance or hamper extended deterrence among the U.S. and its two allies in Northeast Asia. This initiative will explore ways the three countries could work together to secure their national interests and reinforce the U.S. extended deterrent. The dialogue will build upon existing multilateral engagements to improve U.S. understanding about current thinking in Japan and Korea on topics such as the global disarmament movement, U.S.-Russian arms control measures, the U.S. nuclear weapons posture, China’s nuclear modernization efforts, and the growing threat of proliferation from North Korea.