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The negotiation that shows Japan's shift away from the U.S.

First Voice

04:46

Editor's note: CGTN's First Voice provides instant commentary on breaking stories. The column clarifies emerging issues and better defines the news agenda, offering a Chinese perspective on the latest global events.

On July 7th, U.S. President Donald Trump pushed the deadline of the 90-day pause of America's reciprocal tariffs to August 1st. At the same time, he has readied his tariff sticks and prepared to impose levies against countries that haven't struck a deal with the U.S. However, surprisingly, during the tariff negotiations, Japan, a country that has a history of bending to U.S. pressure, refused to bow. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba stated that Japan hasn't made concessions lightly and he will firmly defend Japan's national interests. Is this the end of the U.S.-Japan "plastic friendship"? Why has an obedient "ally" turned against the U.S.? Take a look.

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