Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
Two principal authors of a recent study by Japan’s National Institute for Defense Studies discussed their assessments of Chinese decision-making in the Communist Party leadership and policy coordination involving the army and the government.
Japan’s newly empowered Liberal Democratic Party needs to form a broad political coalition to repair the country’s finances, stabilize the social welfare system, and bolster Tokyo’s role in the region.
The Obama administration argues that the realignment of American military might and political focus is not meant to counter a more assertive China, but to refresh relationships with allies and to maintain regional stability.
Even if the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan wins in the upcoming elections, it will be more of an overwhelming defeat for the Democratic Party of Japan than a victory for the Liberal Democratic Party.
While headlines relating to U.S.-Japan relations are currently dominated by elections, budget battles, and regional security tensions, it is worth stepping back and viewing the relationship in a multidisciplinary context.
The best possible outcome of Japan’s upcoming elections is the formation of a stable government that breaks the policy inertia plaguing the country.
Tensions have escalated in the South and East China Seas. As events progress, what was already a complex and complicated issue over minuscule territories has drawn big power attention.
The U.S. nuclear umbrella is only one component of America’s security commitment to Japan. Forward defense deployments, cooperative missile defense development, stepped-up intelligence sharing, and diplomatic and political visits are all components of extended deterrence.
Japan remains a vital part of Asia and will be a major player in shaping the region’s future. The United States needs to remember Japan’s importance.
Tensions over the Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands are still simmering and despite talks between high-ranking diplomats from both sides, many obstacles remain that prevent the two countries from reaching an agreement on the issue.