Increased Chinese military maneuvers prompt Japan to appoint new Defense personnel

Japan's Defense Minister Minoru Kihara walks on the day of the cabinet reshuffle at the Prime Minister's office in Tokyo, Japan, Sept. 13, 2023. [Reuters]

China's increasing military manoeuvers near Taiwan and Japan are triggering changes in Japanese government attitudes.

Japan made two important defense personnel appointments last week. Analysts think the moves reflect the growing level of importance that Tokyo attaches to the status across the Taiwan Strait.