The collapse of UN talks on the future of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty has sharpened concern in Japan that outer space could become the next arena for nuclear and military rivalry.
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 say Japan should 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 strong supporter of nuclear non-proliferation and the only country to have suffered a nuclear attack.
Advertisement
The Japanese government expressed disappointment on Monday after one month of discussions at the UN in New York failed to adopt a document on the future of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. UN rules require the final document to be adopted unanimously, but that could not be achieved.
Similar review conferences failed to reach a final document in 2015 and 2022.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara on Monday called the failure “extremely regrettable” but said Japan would “persistently and steadily advance realistic and practical efforts” to achieve a world free of nuclear weapons.