Japan eyes new rules to curb US, China and Russia space arms race
Japan is ‘best placed’ to establish new rules given its space capabilities and strong support for nuclear non-proliferation, analysts say
With Russia accused of developing a nuclear anti-satellite capability, China and Russia advancing weapons that can disable satellites and the US pursuing space-based missile defence systems, some in Tokyo are calling on Japan to take the lead in drawing up new rules for the peaceful use of space.
Analysts say any binding agreement would be difficult given the polarisation of major powers and deepening geopolitical rivalries, but Japan has unusual credibility as a space-capable nation, a staunch supporter of nuclear non-proliferation and the only country to have suffered a nuclear attack.
The Japanese government expressed disappointment on Monday after a month of discussions at the UN in New York failed to produce a consensus document on the treaty’s future. UN rules require the final document to be adopted unanimously, a threshold that could not be reached.
Similar review conferences failed to agree a final document in 2015 and 2022.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara called the failure “extremely regrettable” but said Japan would “persistently and steadily advance realistic and practical efforts” towards a world free of nuclear weapons.