Tokyo plans to build a military base in Djibouti

SANAA, Oct. 15 (YPA) – Tokyo plans to set up a military base at the entrance to the Red Sea in Djibouti, which will be the first permanent Japan’s base overseas, the Sankei Shimbun newspaper quoted defense ministry sources as saying.

The Japanese military has a military supply center in Djibouti, which is used by a destroyer and two patrol aircraft engaged in routine anti-piracy operations in the region.

According to the newspaper, despite the decline in the number of these operations significantly in the recent period, Tokyo plans to expand its military facility in Djibouti, by leasing a plot of land of 12 hectares to build a barracks, administrative offices and warehouses.

The newspaper points out that the Japanese government views the establishment of a permanent military base in Djibouti as a way to confront China, which is also seeking to expand its presence in that region overlooking strategic sea lanes linking East Asia to Europe.

Sameera Hassn