Canada is currently engaged in discussions regarding its potential participation in an expanded AUKUS agreement involving the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, aimed at addressing China’s increasing military presence in the Asia Pacific region, according to Canadian Defence Minister Bill Blair.

Canada has expressed interest in joining a second component of AUKUS that focuses on collaboration in advanced military technologies, such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing, although specific details of these discussions have not yet been disclosed. “Significant conversations have taken place regarding processes and platforms on a project-specific basis, exploring how other nations, including Japan and ourselves, might be involved,” Blair stated during an interview in Tokyo, where he met with his Japanese counterpart, Minoru Kihara.

“I would respectfully wait until they reach their conclusion, but I am quite optimistic,” he added. Blair noted that he and Kihara discussed AUKUS, which is already considering collaboration with Japan.

The initial phase of AUKUS focuses on developing nuclear submarine technology for Australia.

This marks Blair’s first visit to Japan as defence minister, following his trip to South Korea, which is also exploring a role in AUKUS. Canada aims to enhance its security presence in Asia and has prioritized strengthening relationships with Japan and South Korea.

As its defence obligations grow both domestically and internationally, the country is increasing its military budget. “Next year, my defence budget will increase by 27% compared to this year, and, frankly, over the next three to four years, our defence spending will triple,” Blair remarked.

He and Kihara also addressed recent Chinese incursions into Japanese territory, which led Tokyo to file protests with Beijing last month. Concerns regarding Chinese military activities may be raised at an upcoming meeting of the Group of Seven defence ministers in Italy next month, according to Blair.

“This presents a crucial opportunity for us to engage in discussions among G7 partners about activities that are of significant concern to Japan, Canada, the United States, and others.”