TOKYO -- Joint military drills and defense summits are being canceled across the Asia-Pacific in response to the coronavirus outbreak, throwing a wrench into Japanese and U.S. efforts to woo regional players in their rivalry against China.
"Several joint exercises have already been canceled as part of the coronavirus response," Japanese Defense Minister Taro Kono told reporters last Thursday. "It is regrettable that opportunities to advance defense cooperation with other countries are being postponed or canceled."
