| Recent developments in the Five Eyes intelligence alliance The Five Eyes intelligence alliance was in the news for two different yet still related issues last week. On the one hand, New Zealand was criticized for not joining the other four members in statements on human rights infractions in China, the country’s largest trade partner. This also comes after China and New Zealand have signed an agreement to upgrade their existing free trade pact in January. On the other hand, Japan has never been closer to joining the alliance. Suga was the first foreign leader to be officially hosted by President Biden mid-April during talks heavily focused on China. Given Japan’s proximity to China, North Korea and Russia, could the country be an attractive geopolitical addition to the Five Eyes alliance? Cindy Bischofberger | 