This document summarizes the key discussions and conclusions from a conference on Japan's increasing global role. The conference brought together senior Japanese, EU, and US policymakers and business leaders. There was a debate around whether Japan is increasingly looking inward or remains an active global player. While Japan faces challenges like political instability and an aging population, it remains an important economic and political stakeholder internationally. Japan contributes significantly to global challenges like climate change and supports international institutions. However, it needs to better communicate its role and define its relationships with countries like China to overcome a sense of introspection and assume greater leadership.
1) The document discusses security issues in Southeast Asia, including internal instability from armed insurrections, international crime, and border disputes between countries in the region and China.
2) It provides background on ASEAN, a regional organization founded in 1967 to promote cooperation and integration between Southeast Asian countries.
3) It analyzes ASEAN's role and challenges in the current geopolitical context, as Asian powers like China rise and the world becomes more multipolar, presenting both opportunities and threats to stability in Southeast Asia.
This document summarizes China-Latin America economic relations over the past few decades and considers possible scenarios for how the relationship may evolve. It notes that China has become a major trading partner and investor for many Latin American countries as its demand for commodities has driven growth. However, concerns include Latin America's dependence on raw material exports and potential impacts from a slowdown in China's economy. The document explores scenarios for sustained Chinese growth, a moderate slowdown, or a hard landing and associated effects on Latin America. It also discusses the diverse policy responses across the region to Chinese engagement.
Barack Wins Scenarios By Gerald Harris2Gerald Harris
1. The Underfunded Agenda scenario describes a world with a long global recession that requires cooperation between political parties to find solutions. President Obama compromises on some promises due to economic conditions but oversees a withdrawal from wars and rebuilding of defense spending. By his second term, the economy is growing again.
2. The One Term Nightmare scenario involves a sharp prolonged global recession that increases division and protectionism. Obama faces ineffective cabinet members and delays to healthcare and energy policies due to economic problems and partisan attacks.
3. The Waste of Vision scenario has the economy avoiding collapse through policy intervention, but partisan fighting and cultural divisions waste time on issues like healthcare and energy.
4. The Dream Emer
This document is a project report submitted by Jitendra Kumar to fulfill requirements for a Post-Graduate Diploma in Business Economics from Dayalbagh Educational Institution. The report studies the economic impact of bilateral international relationships with special reference to India and the USA on the growth of the Indian economy. It includes an introduction, literature review, research methodology, analysis of the USA-India and US-China trade relations and their economic impacts on India. It also examines India's trade relations with other Asian countries like Bangladesh and Maldives in the context of China's growing influence. The report aims to understand the steps taken by India to engage with the USA and other countries, and their effects on both economies.
Usa foreign policy_towards_middle_eastgilani syeda
proper knowledge of US constitutions with its amendments and foreign relations of America with the states of middle east like iran, iraq, saudi arabia etc concluding its overall typesof relation in this region.
Southeast Asian perceptions of China are shaped by several factors including the power differential between China and ASEAN states, China's claims over the South China Sea, China's growing military capabilities, China's past support for insurgent movements in the region, and fears over China's influence on ethnic Chinese communities. Suspicion of China is strongest in Indonesia and the Philippines due to historical tensions, but also exists to some degree in other ASEAN states except Myanmar and Thailand. Effective defense cooperation among ASEAN states has been lacking due to both domestic constraints and differing views on the threat posed by China. Singapore maintains good economic ties with China but also sees the US as an important balancing power against potential Chinese dominance in the region.
The document discusses the relationship between the US and China in 2020 according to the "two-good theory". The theory predicts that as China's economic and military power increases, it will seek more policy changes internationally. This is exemplified by China's territorial disputes with neighbors and calls to replace the US dollar as the global reserve currency. Meanwhile, as US influence declines relatively, it will prioritize maintaining the status quo. The future relationship will test this theory as China continues pursuing changes while the US seeks to preserve its interests.
1) The document discusses security issues in Southeast Asia, including internal instability from armed insurrections, international crime, and border disputes between countries in the region and China.
2) It provides background on ASEAN, a regional organization founded in 1967 to promote cooperation and integration between Southeast Asian countries.
3) It analyzes ASEAN's role and challenges in the current geopolitical context, as Asian powers like China rise and the world becomes more multipolar, presenting both opportunities and threats to stability in Southeast Asia.
This document summarizes China-Latin America economic relations over the past few decades and considers possible scenarios for how the relationship may evolve. It notes that China has become a major trading partner and investor for many Latin American countries as its demand for commodities has driven growth. However, concerns include Latin America's dependence on raw material exports and potential impacts from a slowdown in China's economy. The document explores scenarios for sustained Chinese growth, a moderate slowdown, or a hard landing and associated effects on Latin America. It also discusses the diverse policy responses across the region to Chinese engagement.
Barack Wins Scenarios By Gerald Harris2Gerald Harris
1. The Underfunded Agenda scenario describes a world with a long global recession that requires cooperation between political parties to find solutions. President Obama compromises on some promises due to economic conditions but oversees a withdrawal from wars and rebuilding of defense spending. By his second term, the economy is growing again.
2. The One Term Nightmare scenario involves a sharp prolonged global recession that increases division and protectionism. Obama faces ineffective cabinet members and delays to healthcare and energy policies due to economic problems and partisan attacks.
3. The Waste of Vision scenario has the economy avoiding collapse through policy intervention, but partisan fighting and cultural divisions waste time on issues like healthcare and energy.
4. The Dream Emer
This document is a project report submitted by Jitendra Kumar to fulfill requirements for a Post-Graduate Diploma in Business Economics from Dayalbagh Educational Institution. The report studies the economic impact of bilateral international relationships with special reference to India and the USA on the growth of the Indian economy. It includes an introduction, literature review, research methodology, analysis of the USA-India and US-China trade relations and their economic impacts on India. It also examines India's trade relations with other Asian countries like Bangladesh and Maldives in the context of China's growing influence. The report aims to understand the steps taken by India to engage with the USA and other countries, and their effects on both economies.
Usa foreign policy_towards_middle_eastgilani syeda
proper knowledge of US constitutions with its amendments and foreign relations of America with the states of middle east like iran, iraq, saudi arabia etc concluding its overall typesof relation in this region.
Southeast Asian perceptions of China are shaped by several factors including the power differential between China and ASEAN states, China's claims over the South China Sea, China's growing military capabilities, China's past support for insurgent movements in the region, and fears over China's influence on ethnic Chinese communities. Suspicion of China is strongest in Indonesia and the Philippines due to historical tensions, but also exists to some degree in other ASEAN states except Myanmar and Thailand. Effective defense cooperation among ASEAN states has been lacking due to both domestic constraints and differing views on the threat posed by China. Singapore maintains good economic ties with China but also sees the US as an important balancing power against potential Chinese dominance in the region.
The document discusses the relationship between the US and China in 2020 according to the "two-good theory". The theory predicts that as China's economic and military power increases, it will seek more policy changes internationally. This is exemplified by China's territorial disputes with neighbors and calls to replace the US dollar as the global reserve currency. Meanwhile, as US influence declines relatively, it will prioritize maintaining the status quo. The future relationship will test this theory as China continues pursuing changes while the US seeks to preserve its interests.
After WWII, Japan gave war reparations to Southeast Asian countries and restored diplomatic relations. Japan's economic ties with Southeast Asia grew significantly in the 1990s, though political relations were limited by anti-Japanese sentiment in some countries. Japan provided large amounts of official development assistance to countries like the Philippines and implemented cultural exchange programs to strengthen relationships in the region. The Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement aimed to enhance bilateral economic cooperation but faced some controversies.
China in 2010 displaced Japan to become the second biggest economy in the world. Both countries are the first and second largest economies in the Asia region and both also are part of the world factory, centred in China, that it is Asia, especially East Asia.
Both nations have a long historical relationship but complicated by issues that have to do with Japan invasion of China in the first half of the XX century and now the growing assertiveness of China in the region. Both are the engines of growth in the East Asa region. Japan used to be the largest but now China is becoming it. China is already the biggest trade partner of most countries in the region and its investment is increasing, even if still is behind Japan in this field.
So, a stable relationship between China and Japan is a condition for the continuous growth of the East Asia region. In this article a review of China Japan relation will be done. First trade relationship between China and Japan will be seen, then investment, then exchange of people, then economic aid, and last the political relations mong them will be assessed. A conclusion will follow.
The summary provides an overview of key points from the document:
1. Norway tops the global happiness rankings for 2017 based on factors like caring, freedom, generosity, honesty, health, income and good governance. Happiness is found to have both social and personal components.
2. The World Happiness Report is published annually and highlights this year the importance of social foundations for happiness. Differences in happiness levels within and between countries are explained.
3. Positive ways of thinking and acting that were found to increase happiness in scientific studies include cultivating relationships, expressing gratitude, finding flow in challenging activities, and focusing on personal growth rather than past mistakes.
China follows a foreign policy of non-aggression, non-interference, equality and cooperation between nations. It focuses on peaceful development and believes in resolving disputes through negotiation rather than military force. China's foreign policy is guided by the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence - mutual respect for sovereignty, mutual non-aggression, non-interference in internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence. China seeks cooperative relationships with other countries based on these principles and aims to avoid conflict or confrontation.
First india jaipur edition-17 december 2020FIRST INDIA
Welcome to the Official Website of First India E-Paper. We are the best ENGLISH NEWS PAPER in India with Special coverage of Rajasthan & Gujrat. Follow us for the LATEST NEWS & Top LIVE NEWS in India and around the world.
Visit:- https://firstindia.co.in/newspaper
This document is a MA thesis submitted to China Foreign Affairs University that examines China's foreign aid to Papua New Guinea. It consists of five chapters that analyze various aspects of China's aid to Pacific island nations, with a focus on Papua New Guinea. The introduction provides background on China's foreign aid and establishes the significance of studying its impacts on Papua New Guinea's economic development. Subsequent chapters analyze the features and reasons for China's aid to Pacific countries, its effects on Papua New Guinea's economy, and different perspectives on China's aid from the international community, PNG government, and Papua New Guinean people. The conclusion reflects on lessons learned and provides recommendations to maximize the benefits of foreign aid.
The document discusses the current state of the US economy based on recent economic indicators. It notes that:
- The US economy is growing slowly but steadily and is no longer in an official recession. GDP and consumer spending increased in the last quarter of 2015.
- Unemployment is low and job growth has helped boost consumer spending. However, declining corporate profits, weak business investment, and a slowing global economy pose risks.
- Consumer spending increased in December 2015, particularly among younger, lower-income consumers, helping drive overall growth.
- The US trade deficit narrowed slightly in March 2016, suggesting weaker imports may lessen the drag on GDP.
So in summary, the US economy is experiencing
This article introduces a Japanese girl group called Machikado Keiki whose gimmick is basing the length of their skirts on movements in the Nikkei stock index. The group, whose members are aged 16-23, sings about current Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's economic policies known as "Abenomics" in their debut single. Their concept has drawn some criticism, but their goal is to cheer up fans and potentially influence the market. The success of the group remains uncertain and dependent on the performance of the Japanese economy.
Economy of South Korea and Economy of China assignment from International Dev...Md. Moazzem Hossain
This document is an assignment comparing the economies of South Korea and China. It includes sections providing detailed information on key economic indicators and statistics of both countries. South Korea has a highly developed market economy that is currently the 15th largest in the world by GDP. China has the second largest economy and has experienced extremely rapid economic growth in recent decades under its socialist market system. Both countries rely heavily on international trade and exports, with China now the largest exporter and South Korea the 7th largest.
The document summarizes the economic environment of the United States from the 19th century to 2011. It discusses key trends such as the US having the largest economy in the world, a high level of per capita output, and being the largest global trading partner. It also examines structural changes in the US economy, including a shift away from industry towards services. Key metrics covered include GDP growth, household income, wealth, debt levels, important industries, and population/labor force size.
This document summarizes China's response to the global financial crisis that began in late 2008. It discusses:
1) China's assessment that the crisis revealed flaws in free market economies, globalization, and the irrational international economic order.
2) The negative impacts on China, including shrinking overseas demand, overproduction, falling sales, and slowing GDP growth.
3) China's conclusion that it still has opportunities for development and conditions for economic growth remain sound.
4) China's policies to address the crisis, including expanding domestic demand through government spending, industrial restructuring, and stimulating consumer demand.
Vietnam's Recent Economic Development 2013Quynh LE
This report provides an update on Vietnam's recent economic developments. It summarizes that global growth is stabilizing at a moderate pace, though recovery in industrial production has been uneven across countries. Financial market conditions have improved due to monetary easing, but capital costs for developing countries are rising as risks in high-income countries recede. Inflation remains benign in most countries, prompting further monetary policy easing. Trade growth has slowed after a cyclical rebound, while most commodity prices have weakened in response to increased supply and substitution.
This presentations explains some U.S. views on China-DPRK relations, some South Korean views on China-DPRK relations, signs of evolution in China’s DPRK policy, signs of continuity of China’s DPRK policy. It also looks at the question, is economic reform possible in North Korea? Finally, it shows the factors favouring continuity.
President Obama made his first visit to India from November 6-9, 2010. There were high expectations around strengthening economic ties, addressing security issues like terrorism, and supporting India's rise on the global stage. Obama announced new trade deals worth $10 billion and addressed both houses of the Indian parliament, expressing support for addressing Pakistan's terrorism issues and backing India's bid for a permanent UN Security Council seat. While some concerns around the US-Pakistan relationship remained, the visit achieved progress on economic, security, and strategic cooperation, and both sides were optimistic about the future of the US-India partnership.
The document provides commentary from OceanForest Investment Partners on the third quarter of 2011. Key points from interviews with Warren Buffett and a panel of experts include:
1) The US and Europe face real economic challenges but the US has the flexibility and innovation to adapt and compete globally.
2) While short term uncertainty exists, US and European multinational companies offer attractive long term investment opportunities at low valuations.
3) Avoiding all risk by holding only safe assets may be the biggest risk for investors seeking growth over the long run.
This document summarizes the key discussions and conclusions from a conference on challenges and opportunities for Japan in the global economy. The conference highlighted that the global financial crisis requires an international response due to economic interconnectivity. Japan is well positioned to take advantage of opportunities from global turmoil due to its large cash reserves. However, Japan needs to engage more globally and demonstrate leadership on issues like climate change. Its relationship with China is also critical and both countries need to resolve bilateral issues to create a true partnership.
This document summarizes the key discussions and conclusions from a conference on challenges and opportunities for Japan in the global economy. The conference highlighted that the global financial crisis requires an international response due to economic interconnectivity. Japan is well positioned to take advantage of opportunities from global turmoil due to its large cash reserves. However, Japan needs to engage more globally and demonstrate leadership on issues like climate change. Its relationship with China is also critical and both countries need to resolve bilateral issues to create a true partnership.
This document summarizes the key discussions and conclusions from a conference on challenges and opportunities for Japan in the global economy. The conference highlighted that the global financial crisis requires an international response due to economic interconnectivity. Japan is well positioned to take advantage of opportunities from global turmoil due to its large cash reserves. However, Japan needs to engage more globally and demonstrate leadership on issues like climate change. Its relationship with China is also critical and both countries need to resolve bilateral issues to create a true partnership.
(Asia today) Inoguchi, Takashi - Japanese and Korean politics _ alone and apa...ChristopherBatista6
Asia was previously responsible for over half of the world's GDP, but underwent a period of decline since 1820. It is now undergoing a great transformation and estimated to account for over half of global GDP by 2035 due to rapid economic growth, political changes, and increased regional integration, making Asia increasingly the geopolitical center of the global system. The document discusses an academic book that aims to provide an understanding of this kaleidoscopic regional change in Asia through detailed analysis of the politics and foreign policies of Japan and South Korea, two important Asian countries with a complex relationship, exploring how domestic developments in each country impact their relationship and roles in the
After WWII, Japan gave war reparations to Southeast Asian countries and restored diplomatic relations. Japan's economic ties with Southeast Asia grew significantly in the 1990s, though political relations were limited by anti-Japanese sentiment in some countries. Japan provided large amounts of official development assistance to countries like the Philippines and implemented cultural exchange programs to strengthen relationships in the region. The Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement aimed to enhance bilateral economic cooperation but faced some controversies.
China in 2010 displaced Japan to become the second biggest economy in the world. Both countries are the first and second largest economies in the Asia region and both also are part of the world factory, centred in China, that it is Asia, especially East Asia.
Both nations have a long historical relationship but complicated by issues that have to do with Japan invasion of China in the first half of the XX century and now the growing assertiveness of China in the region. Both are the engines of growth in the East Asa region. Japan used to be the largest but now China is becoming it. China is already the biggest trade partner of most countries in the region and its investment is increasing, even if still is behind Japan in this field.
So, a stable relationship between China and Japan is a condition for the continuous growth of the East Asia region. In this article a review of China Japan relation will be done. First trade relationship between China and Japan will be seen, then investment, then exchange of people, then economic aid, and last the political relations mong them will be assessed. A conclusion will follow.
The summary provides an overview of key points from the document:
1. Norway tops the global happiness rankings for 2017 based on factors like caring, freedom, generosity, honesty, health, income and good governance. Happiness is found to have both social and personal components.
2. The World Happiness Report is published annually and highlights this year the importance of social foundations for happiness. Differences in happiness levels within and between countries are explained.
3. Positive ways of thinking and acting that were found to increase happiness in scientific studies include cultivating relationships, expressing gratitude, finding flow in challenging activities, and focusing on personal growth rather than past mistakes.
China follows a foreign policy of non-aggression, non-interference, equality and cooperation between nations. It focuses on peaceful development and believes in resolving disputes through negotiation rather than military force. China's foreign policy is guided by the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence - mutual respect for sovereignty, mutual non-aggression, non-interference in internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence. China seeks cooperative relationships with other countries based on these principles and aims to avoid conflict or confrontation.
First india jaipur edition-17 december 2020FIRST INDIA
Welcome to the Official Website of First India E-Paper. We are the best ENGLISH NEWS PAPER in India with Special coverage of Rajasthan & Gujrat. Follow us for the LATEST NEWS & Top LIVE NEWS in India and around the world.
Visit:- https://firstindia.co.in/newspaper
This document is a MA thesis submitted to China Foreign Affairs University that examines China's foreign aid to Papua New Guinea. It consists of five chapters that analyze various aspects of China's aid to Pacific island nations, with a focus on Papua New Guinea. The introduction provides background on China's foreign aid and establishes the significance of studying its impacts on Papua New Guinea's economic development. Subsequent chapters analyze the features and reasons for China's aid to Pacific countries, its effects on Papua New Guinea's economy, and different perspectives on China's aid from the international community, PNG government, and Papua New Guinean people. The conclusion reflects on lessons learned and provides recommendations to maximize the benefits of foreign aid.
The document discusses the current state of the US economy based on recent economic indicators. It notes that:
- The US economy is growing slowly but steadily and is no longer in an official recession. GDP and consumer spending increased in the last quarter of 2015.
- Unemployment is low and job growth has helped boost consumer spending. However, declining corporate profits, weak business investment, and a slowing global economy pose risks.
- Consumer spending increased in December 2015, particularly among younger, lower-income consumers, helping drive overall growth.
- The US trade deficit narrowed slightly in March 2016, suggesting weaker imports may lessen the drag on GDP.
So in summary, the US economy is experiencing
This article introduces a Japanese girl group called Machikado Keiki whose gimmick is basing the length of their skirts on movements in the Nikkei stock index. The group, whose members are aged 16-23, sings about current Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's economic policies known as "Abenomics" in their debut single. Their concept has drawn some criticism, but their goal is to cheer up fans and potentially influence the market. The success of the group remains uncertain and dependent on the performance of the Japanese economy.
Economy of South Korea and Economy of China assignment from International Dev...Md. Moazzem Hossain
This document is an assignment comparing the economies of South Korea and China. It includes sections providing detailed information on key economic indicators and statistics of both countries. South Korea has a highly developed market economy that is currently the 15th largest in the world by GDP. China has the second largest economy and has experienced extremely rapid economic growth in recent decades under its socialist market system. Both countries rely heavily on international trade and exports, with China now the largest exporter and South Korea the 7th largest.
The document summarizes the economic environment of the United States from the 19th century to 2011. It discusses key trends such as the US having the largest economy in the world, a high level of per capita output, and being the largest global trading partner. It also examines structural changes in the US economy, including a shift away from industry towards services. Key metrics covered include GDP growth, household income, wealth, debt levels, important industries, and population/labor force size.
This document summarizes China's response to the global financial crisis that began in late 2008. It discusses:
1) China's assessment that the crisis revealed flaws in free market economies, globalization, and the irrational international economic order.
2) The negative impacts on China, including shrinking overseas demand, overproduction, falling sales, and slowing GDP growth.
3) China's conclusion that it still has opportunities for development and conditions for economic growth remain sound.
4) China's policies to address the crisis, including expanding domestic demand through government spending, industrial restructuring, and stimulating consumer demand.
Vietnam's Recent Economic Development 2013Quynh LE
This report provides an update on Vietnam's recent economic developments. It summarizes that global growth is stabilizing at a moderate pace, though recovery in industrial production has been uneven across countries. Financial market conditions have improved due to monetary easing, but capital costs for developing countries are rising as risks in high-income countries recede. Inflation remains benign in most countries, prompting further monetary policy easing. Trade growth has slowed after a cyclical rebound, while most commodity prices have weakened in response to increased supply and substitution.
This presentations explains some U.S. views on China-DPRK relations, some South Korean views on China-DPRK relations, signs of evolution in China’s DPRK policy, signs of continuity of China’s DPRK policy. It also looks at the question, is economic reform possible in North Korea? Finally, it shows the factors favouring continuity.
President Obama made his first visit to India from November 6-9, 2010. There were high expectations around strengthening economic ties, addressing security issues like terrorism, and supporting India's rise on the global stage. Obama announced new trade deals worth $10 billion and addressed both houses of the Indian parliament, expressing support for addressing Pakistan's terrorism issues and backing India's bid for a permanent UN Security Council seat. While some concerns around the US-Pakistan relationship remained, the visit achieved progress on economic, security, and strategic cooperation, and both sides were optimistic about the future of the US-India partnership.
The document provides commentary from OceanForest Investment Partners on the third quarter of 2011. Key points from interviews with Warren Buffett and a panel of experts include:
1) The US and Europe face real economic challenges but the US has the flexibility and innovation to adapt and compete globally.
2) While short term uncertainty exists, US and European multinational companies offer attractive long term investment opportunities at low valuations.
3) Avoiding all risk by holding only safe assets may be the biggest risk for investors seeking growth over the long run.
This document summarizes the key discussions and conclusions from a conference on challenges and opportunities for Japan in the global economy. The conference highlighted that the global financial crisis requires an international response due to economic interconnectivity. Japan is well positioned to take advantage of opportunities from global turmoil due to its large cash reserves. However, Japan needs to engage more globally and demonstrate leadership on issues like climate change. Its relationship with China is also critical and both countries need to resolve bilateral issues to create a true partnership.
This document summarizes the key discussions and conclusions from a conference on challenges and opportunities for Japan in the global economy. The conference highlighted that the global financial crisis requires an international response due to economic interconnectivity. Japan is well positioned to take advantage of opportunities from global turmoil due to its large cash reserves. However, Japan needs to engage more globally and demonstrate leadership on issues like climate change. Its relationship with China is also critical and both countries need to resolve bilateral issues to create a true partnership.
This document summarizes the key discussions and conclusions from a conference on challenges and opportunities for Japan in the global economy. The conference highlighted that the global financial crisis requires an international response due to economic interconnectivity. Japan is well positioned to take advantage of opportunities from global turmoil due to its large cash reserves. However, Japan needs to engage more globally and demonstrate leadership on issues like climate change. Its relationship with China is also critical and both countries need to resolve bilateral issues to create a true partnership.
(Asia today) Inoguchi, Takashi - Japanese and Korean politics _ alone and apa...ChristopherBatista6
Asia was previously responsible for over half of the world's GDP, but underwent a period of decline since 1820. It is now undergoing a great transformation and estimated to account for over half of global GDP by 2035 due to rapid economic growth, political changes, and increased regional integration, making Asia increasingly the geopolitical center of the global system. The document discusses an academic book that aims to provide an understanding of this kaleidoscopic regional change in Asia through detailed analysis of the politics and foreign policies of Japan and South Korea, two important Asian countries with a complex relationship, exploring how domestic developments in each country impact their relationship and roles in the
The Leadership Of The Liberal Democratic Party Of JapanKelly Ratkovic
This document discusses Michael Porter's theory of national competitive advantage and how it can be applied to analyze Japan's economy. Porter's theory examines how factors such as country context, strategy/structure/rivalry of firms in an industry, and related/supporting industries influence national competitiveness. The document will outline Porter's theory and validate a suggested answer about Japan's competitive advantage by applying Porter's analytical framework to examine Japan's industries and economic conditions.
Japan has an opportunity to become a stabilizing force in Asia and shape the regional order by joining the China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). However, Japan has previously failed to "think big" and establish a strategic vision for Asia like China has. Many Asian countries now want Japan to join the AIIB to help shape its standards and governance. For Japan to effectively influence the region, it must develop a comprehensive strategy and act multilaterally, as it did during its economic rise in the 1980s and 1990s before withdrawing after the 1997 Asian financial crisis.
The political, security, and economic environments surrounding Japan have been changing very rapidly since Prime Minister Kan took office. During his talk, to be followed by a discussion with the audience, Shikata-san will seek to answer several key questions: What are the salient features of current Japanese diplomatic, security and economic policies in the Asia Pacific region? What are the possible directions that Japan can take given the current and prospective regional landscape? What the the implications of TPP (Trans Pacific Partnership) for Japan? What are the implications of TPP (Trans Pacific Partnership) for Japan?
How china could remain power in south east asiasonichiba
The document discusses China's strategy to maintain power in Southeast Asia amid competition with the U.S. over trade agreements. It analyzes Japan's key role in determining whether countries join the U.S.-led TPP or a China-led alternative. It argues China should soften its stance on territorial disputes with Japan and convince Japan to join a trilateral agreement including China and South Korea to prevent U.S. dominance in the region and allow China to maintain influence over trade rules.
How china could remain power in south east asiasonichiba
The document discusses China's strategy to maintain power in Southeast Asia amidst rising tensions with the US over competing trade agreements. The US is pushing the TPP to expand its influence in the region and counter China's growth, while China wants to strengthen its own ASEAN trading bloc. Japan's potential participation in the TPP could significantly boost its scope but also worries China by restricting its economic influence. China needs to encourage Japan and others to join its alternative trading agreements to maintain favorable conditions for its economic interests in Southeast Asia.
This document summarizes the key topics and questions covered in Week 1 of a seminar on Japan's international relations. The seminar addressed why Japan remains an important actor to study, and how its relations can be analyzed through the lenses of politics, economics, and security. Specific discussion points included Japan's role in the US, East Asia, common characterizations of its international activity over time which have changed from "rising sun" to perceptions of economic challenge or contradiction. The seminar utilized group activities and discussions to explore these themes in more depth.
The document provides information about Japan's economy and political factors. It discusses Japan's status as the third largest economy in the world but one that is highly dependent on exports and vulnerable to external shocks. It notes that while Prime Minister Abe's economic reforms have helped growth, public debt remains very high and population aging is a concern. Key political factors discussed include Japan's stable one-party rule by the LDP and influence of bureaucratic ministries.
The document discusses Japan's strategy for responding to the European debt crisis at an upcoming G20 meeting. It recommends that Japan provide financial support to Europe at an appropriate scale and timing. Additionally, it argues that Japan should coordinate with China to make a large, allied financial contribution. Doing so could help strengthen Japan's relationships with China and other emerging economies as China's economic power grows. Taking a strategic, allied approach with China represents an opportunity for Japan to exert more influence as an Asian leader during the global financial crisis.
Strategy on east asia the strategic choices for beijing, tokyo and moscowAlexander Decker
1. The document discusses Washington's "Returning to Asia" strategy and its potential impacts on East Asia. The strategy has two pillars: promoting the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement and redeploying US military forces in the Asia-Pacific region.
2. It analyzes the strategic choices available to China, Japan, and Russia in response to the US strategy. For China, it suggests continuing to advance trade agreements with ASEAN while remaining open to TPP, using trade leverage in territorial disputes, and being prepared to counter Japanese militarism with force if needed.
3. For all regional powers, managing tensions and conflicts will be important to prevent deterioration of the security situation in East Asia
(1) The document aims to introduce the significance of Japan's international relations in politics, economics, and security with East Asia and the U.S.;
(2) Japan matters globally as the world's 3rd largest economy and domestically through its close political, economic, and security ties to the U.S. via their security treaty;
(3) In East Asia, Japan plays an important economic role and is taking on a more active political and security role to promote regional integration.
This document provides an overview of common perceptions of Japan's overseas development assistance (ODA) from external stakeholders, particularly in the UK. It finds that there is generally very little awareness or understanding of Japan's approach to ODA. Where awareness does exist, Japan is often viewed as focusing mainly on technical cooperation at the local level with an emphasis on highly visible infrastructure projects. There is also a perception that Japan has been reluctant to embrace principles of aid effectiveness and plays a marginal role in Africa compared to other donors like China. The document examines factors that may explain these perceptions, such as a lack of clear communication from Japan on how its ODA approaches are evolving. It concludes that while some perceptions may involve stereotyping, there are also
Presentation for the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) tailored to a delegation from the Papua New Guinea education ministry visiting western Japan for technical training subsidized by the Japanese government. Focus on Japanese people, society, economics, energy and other issues.
This document outlines a unit on Japan's international relations. It discusses using structure, agency, and norms to explain Japan's postwar relationships with the US and East Asia. Japan balanced the pressures of major powers while pursuing its own interests. Its relationships are constrained by history and security issues like China's rise and North Korea. The document reviews these topics and challenges facing Japan going forward.
This document summarizes the key findings of a joint opinion poll conducted by think tanks in Japan, the US, China, and South Korea regarding perceptions of the future of Northeast Asia. The poll found:
1) Majorities in all four countries believe China's influence in Asia will continue increasing in the next decade, while fewer see US influence increasing.
2) Opinions are divided on which countries can best handle world problems, with Japanese and Americans having more confidence in the US and EU while Chinese and South Koreans have more confidence in China.
3) There are also differences in perceptions of which countries should assume global leadership, with Japanese and Americans citing the US while Chinese cite Russia.
The Impact Of Japanese Great Recession On Foreign...Miles Priar
The Liberal Democratic Party dominated Japanese politics from 1955 to 1993, maintaining control of the government despite Japan's parliamentary democracy system. Key to the LDP's long rule was its strong leadership that closely resembled a single-party dictatorship. However, unlike authoritarian regimes, all of Japan's lawmakers were democratically elected. The LDP's dominance of parliament allowed it to control the government for 38 years through its leadership structure.
Research on Chinas Middle East Diplomatic Strategy Construction.docxverad6
Research on China's Middle East Diplomatic Strategy Construction
The Importance of the Middle East Diplomatic Strategy to China
The President of China Xi Jinping's first trip to the Middle East in early 2016 opened a new chapter in China-Middle East relations. Based on the analysis of current situation changes and trends in the Middle East, combining with the development strategy of big country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics, this paper puts forward the necessity and feasibility of constructing China's Middle East diplomatic strategy, and considers its connotation, goals, key points and practical paths. This paper believes that the core concept of China's Middle East diplomatic strategy should be: to inherit the friendship and consensus, strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation, achieve common development, uphold fairness and justice, and promote stable peace. The main objectives are: to enhance all-round cooperation with the Middle East countries and expand China's presence and national interests in the Middle East, enhance China’s strategic presence in the Middle East, make China’s politically more influential, economically more competitive. The basic idea is: motivate, move forward, and steadily advance, make full use of its own advantages, actively shape the regional environment conducive to the development of all countries and the new relationship between China and the Middle East countries, seek development opportunities in constructive participation, and strengthen economic cooperation, accumulate political consensus and promote the right to speak and influence in the process of actively maintaining regional stability and promoting regional peace.
From a regional perspective, the Middle East countries are gradually entering a period of comprehensive transformation. Although the various forces to start the game and even the conflict is still the main feature of some Middle Eastern countries at this stage, stability and development will eventually become the main theme of political and social transformation in the Middle East. After the turmoil in the first few years of the upheaval in the Middle East, the current Middle East countries are determined by the people's minds and need to absorb the "positive energy" of the world to help them achieve a smooth transition. China has accumulated reforms, developments and stability during the years of transformation.
The geographical position of the Middle East is important, the strategic resources are abundant, the ethnic and religious contradictions are prominent, and the geopolitical relationship is complex. It is one of the most important sectors in the international strategic structure and an important stage for China to carry out great-nation diplomacy. The Middle East is an important region for China to expand its political, economic and security interests and expand its political and cultural influence in the future. It is also a key area for China to promote the construction.
Research on Chinas Middle East Diplomatic Strategy Construction.docx
Wp1063 Japan Report
1. Conference report
Japan: increasing its global role?
Monday 01 - Thursday 04 November 2010 | WP 1063
In association with The Foreign and Commonwealth Office, The Japan Foundation and
The Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation.
2. Conference report
Japan: increasing its global role?
Monday 01 - Thursday 04 November 2010 | WP 1063
Executive Summary
Japan is now at a crossroads in its global political and economic positioning.
To discuss the future path of Japan, a group of senior Japanese, EU and
US policy makers, opinion leaders and corporate sector representatives
gathered at Wilton Park against the background of the global economic
recession and increased security tensions in East Asia. A frank and robust
exchange of views took place.
The key conclusions of the conference were:
Japan will continue to contribute to shared challenges and global institutions
though Japan’s government and its people are increasingly looking inward. This is
not likely to change under the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) government.
Japan faces a critical challenge in overcoming a sense of uneasy introspection.
There is no time for complacency or delay as Japan is called upon to assume a
greater leadership role.
Japan remains a key stakeholder in the international political sphere and remains
concerned regarding the East Asian security environment facing Japan and the
wider region.
Japan is an active supporter of efforts to combat climate change, to counter
proliferation of conventional and nuclear weapons, to support the UN (including
being the second-largest contributor to its budget), and to provide Official
Development Assistance (ODA) to the developing world.
Despite Japan’s consistent contribution to global good, it needs to internationalise
and communicate better, developing a Japan national brand strategy to counter the
often negative media attitude. It needs to develop and activate soft skills to market,
brand and sell Japan actively.
Japan can no longer attempt to be all things to all nations and needs to define its
regional role. Japan is a liberal, values-based country, an ally of the US and a
working partner of China, Republic of Korea (ROK) and ASEAN. Isolation is very
dangerous for Japan as this would allow others to determine its regional relations
at a time when Japan is threatened by the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea
(DPRK) and by China.
Japan wants to engage, not contain China. Both countries are now economically
interdependent yet China’s political and military flexing pose serious threats to
Japan’s interests. It is critical for both countries to have a strong working
relationship .To progress this, Japan, like Germany in Europe, needs closure on
the war history issue.
Western democracies and regional actors wish Japan to contribute more fully to the
3. burden of leadership in Asia, becoming a strong soft power alternative to China, a
consultative facilitator working with peer democracies to promote universal values
and embed China in the global governance architecture.
Japanese public support for the alliance with the US and the status quo remains
strong. The recent incident in the Senkaku Islands shows the important of the US
Japan Security Treaty and the urgency for Japan, with US support, to build its
defensive military capacity and strategically expand links with allies.
Japan needs to open its society to foreign investment and immigration in order to
continue to compete in fiercely competitive global markets. There is a need to
empower Japanese women / non Japanese in mainstream management to
increase its talent pool.
Core priorities for the future must include recreating a working relationship with
China, convincing a sceptical public about the value of more and deeper Economic
Partnership Agreements and getting US-Japan security relations back on track.
Only Japan, trusted by both the EU and US, can bring global best practice to Asia.
Japan could and should lead a virtual EU in fast growth Asia Pacific.
The only way that Japan can move forward is to accept the burdens of a greater
leadership role and take bold initiatives on core issues of security and democracy
both bilaterally and multilaterally.
Japan’s International Outlook in the New Political Era
1. It is interesting to look at how Japan’s international priorities are developing after a year
under the DPJ and to see whether Japan is optimistic or pessimistic about its future and
standing in the region and in the wider world. Different views emerged on Japan’s current
status and mindset regarding its future role and responsibilities in the international
community, though there was a shared sense of Japan’s key challenges ahead, with
interesting insights into how best to overcome these.
2. One view is that Japan is a proactive, global player in both the economic and political
spheres and that the stereotype view of a ‘disappearing Japan’ is an exaggeration. In the
UK, there has been a widespread image of ‘Japan’s lost decade(s)’, and how China’s GDP
is now surpassing that of Japan. Accordingly people ask if Japanese society is stagnating
and whether the Japanese economy is in decline. Economic data suggests differently. The
balance of Japan’s financial assets owned by the household sector amounts to 17.5 trillion
US dollars with net capital assets overseas at 3.3 trillion US dollars. In addition, over 40
percent of the fast growing Asian economy comes from Japan’s GDP which per capita is
still ten times bigger than that of China. Japan’s unemployment rate, at 5.1 percent, is the
lowest among the G7 countries. The crime level is below one-fifth of the US figure and
Japanese people enjoy the highest life expectancy level in the world. Japan accounts for 20
percent of world Research & Development investment, and the number of Japan’s
internationally registered patents is more than 8.5 times that of the UK. According to World
Bank statistics for 2008, the scale of both the Japanese and Chinese economies exceeds
that of the UK, France and Germany combined. In a sense, Asia has become the ‘engine of
the world economy’. This is due, in large part, to the central role Japan has assumed in
fostering economic cooperation and direct investment in Asian countries with its advanced
technologies. Foreign Minister Maehara has clearly stated that Japan will attach importance
to economic diplomacy and is calling on the EU to conclude an Economic Partnership
Agreement (EPA).
3. Japan is also a proactive global player in the political sphere and remains concerned
about the East Asian security environment facing Japan and the wider region. North Korean
missiles continue to put almost all the Japanese archipelago at risk. The rapid military
growth of China, its lack of transparency and maritime expansion in the South and East
China Seas has increased the degree of uncertainty in the region, prompting many
4. countries including the US and ASEAN member states to express their concern.
Furthermore, China’s aggressive reaction to the crash incident off the coast of the Senkaku
islands has increased this concern. Japan does not intend to confront China or seek to
contain it but is urging China to abide by international rules and to act as a responsible
member of the international community. The British Foreign Secretary William Hague, in
July, described Japan as ‘the UK’s closest partner in Asia” and it plays a vital role in Asia-
Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) aiming at further economic integration and an
enhanced growth strategy for the region.
4. An alternative view suggests that Japan’s government and its people are increasingly
looking inward, and that this is not likely to change under the DPJ. This clearly has
implications for the region. Primarily there is a battle of ideas in East Asia – and indeed
globally - about what are the true challenges to our global future and how to address them.
China has worked hard to present itself as following a new and successful model of
development, rebounding from the global financial crisis with even higher economic growth
than before, and purportedly speaking up for other developing countries regarding possible
global controls on greenhouse gas emissions and other aspects of global governance.
There is no consensus within Japan about its global role – which is why the political system
is split, changes frequently, and it has been paralysed on strategic questions such as how
to respond to China’s ascent, how to adapt the US-Japan alliance to Japan’s view of its
security needs and determine what role Japan should play in regional and global
institutions. Like China today, Japan was previously aggressive in ideas about the nature of
global economic competition and institutions, including many calls for reform. This
confidence was shattered with the collapse of the so-called bubble economy, and has
never returned. Many Japanese voters hoped for the emergence of a new sense of
purpose and leadership in the DPJ but are now disappointed. Japan has now had 8 prime
ministers in the last 10 years. Many wonder if Prime Minister Kan will restore Japanese
confidence, create a new sense of purpose for Japan in the world, and lead Japan once
again to be a global leader, reforming its economy and addressing in a serious manner
Japan’s crippling fiscal challenges.
5. The DPJ has delivered an unclear agenda plagued by internal squabbles and weak
political authority in a divided Diet where bureaucrats still wield much de facto power. The
poor handling of the recent Senkaku crisis was illustrative: ironically, Prime Minister Kan’s
standing was rescued by China due to its over-reaction even after the release of Captain
Zhan from custody in Okinawa after 16 days: (Holding four Japanese nationals accused of
spying on a military installation when in fact they were preparing a bid to remove Japanese
Imperial-era chemical weapons; escalating the rare earth metals export ban scare; fueling
the flames of anti-Japanese demonstrations in interior China). This all served to distract the
Japanese public from their dismay that Japan had more or less given in to China without an
underlying strategy, exposing the problems of DPJ management concerning coordination
and public relations.
6. Japanese people seem to show declining interest in the world outside Japan and
therefore a reluctance to engage with it. Compared to South Korea and China, significantly
fewer Japanese young people study abroad. Japan continues to struggle to develop a
successful way to teach foreign languages with even the Japan Exchange and Teaching
Programme (JET) - one of the few successes in Japan’s efforts to internationalise Japan –
facing an uncertain future under DPJ rule. Despite this, Japan’s contribution is
overwhelmingly positive for the international system, with Japan seen as a key stakeholder.
Japan is an active supporter of efforts to combat climate change, to counter proliferation of
conventional and nuclear weapons, to support the UN (including providing the second-
largest share of its annual budget), and to provide ODA to the developing world.
7. In terms of Japan’s key challenges ahead, Japan’s inward focus is a major problem
exemplified by many years of political instability and leadership change in party politics.
Core priorities for the future must include recreating a working relationship with China,
convincing a sceptical public about the value of more and deeper Economic Partnership
Agreements and getting US-Japan security relations back on track. The current sub-
5. optimal prognosis is that Japan seeks to be a constructive player in the system but its
inward focus and domestic political challenges almost certainly will keep it from playing
more than a supporting role over the next several years.
8. The global system is going through transition in terms of the architecture of governance.
Historically, this was brought about by war e.g. Japan was rehabilitated by entry into post
war global institutions, following the legal and normative base of the international system.
Japan’s priority was to be accepted as a member of international society sharing universal
values. Today’s scenario takes place with the end of Cold War structures, though legacy
issues continue in East Asia with remaining territorial disputes between nations as
exemplified in recent conflict over the Senkaku Islands. DPJ rationale seems a change from
the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) foreign policy view (in 2004 the Koizumi Government
simply repatriated seven Chinese activists who landed on Senkaku). The DPJ position
focuses on the Japan China Fisheries Agreement 2000 which divides the territory around
Senkaku into different zones. Strong support of the Japanese position by the USA has
been taken as a boost for the DPJ with reconfirmation of the fact that the US Japan
Security Treaty covers the Senkaku Islands. In the 1972 US resolution, Okinawa and the
Senkaku Islands reverted to Japan. The USA is charged under Article 5 of the treaty to
offer a security commitment to Japan. This has restored confidence towards the US in
Japan after tension regarding the Futenma base issue. The DPJ response to the
infringement of Japan’s territorial integrity was to call on China to follow the rules and
norms of the international system as Japan did in its own post war rise. However, China
does not necessarily view these as universal and perhaps believes that it should shape
new international values rather than accept the status quo. Clearly the DPJ policy of
engaging rather than containing China has not produced a positive outcome in terms of the
territorial problem. There has been no demonstration of Chinese commitment to
universalism or adaptation of global standards e.g. the International Court of Justice. There
is a growing concern over perceived double standards from China, which wishes to be seen
as a big power but shirks the associated responsibilities by saying that it is still a developing
nation.
Global Economic Prosperity: Japan’s Role and Future Influence
9. There has been much coverage of the “lost” two decades but it is sometimes forgotten
that Japan did grow during that time. The impact of the “Lehman Shock” in Japan was
considerable. Exports were reduced by 30% in 2009 and GDP was down 9.4% in FY
2008/9, the worst in the OECD. The position in late 2010 is problematical for Japan with a
poor corporate outlook. Recent data (September 2010) shows that industrial production is
down 2% with inventories up sharply. Unemployment remains relatively high for Japan at
5% with core consumer prices index (CPI) down 1.1% Private consumption remains flat
with retail sales down 3.7% month on month.
10. The Japanese government seems focused on inflation targets and intervention rather
than tackling the structural issues of uncompetitiveness in the Japanese economy. There is
no coherent tax policy. The national debt is still very cheaply priced, with Japanese
Government Bond (JGB) yields at 0.8%. 95% of debt is domestically serviced, but for how
long can Japan continue to borrow from itself? Japan’s traditional business model which
focused on market share and size is now insufficient. Economic growth will require
deregulation and foreign direct investment (FDI) promotion and a change in both culture
and structure to bring highly capable Japanese women and immigrants into the workforce.
In the interconnected global system, the drivers of the Japanese economy are now
external. Japan’s historical focus on protectionism and resistance to competition is directly
opposite current trade policy priorities (Trans-Pacific Economic Partnership (TPP),
EU/Japan, Economic Integration Agreement (EIA)) and imposes tough choices on the
government of Japan. Deregulation and proportionate regulation are key issues. Japanese
management of risk needs to be reevaluated e.g. setting fares for air travel services is no
longer a credible option for a first world country, and the recent controversy over the Japan
Airlines bankruptcy intervention raises concerns about Japan’s ability to allow market forces
6. to function and have a‘ level playing field’.
11. Weak domestic demand in Japan now necessitates increased external focus for
economic growth in key potential global regions such as Africa.The deregulation of the
labour market over the last decade, with the demise of the lifetime employment system,
means that a third of the current Japanese workforce do not have regular employment.
Dampened wage levels have added to lowered domestic demand. A rapidly ageing
population puts further demands on the healthcare system with increasing insecurity among
young Japanese people trying to find secure employment.This is imposing hard choices on
Japan’s political leaders as Japanese people are entering a period of introspection and
potentially dangerous self marginalisation. The world business context is now rapidly
changing with the liberalisation of trade and opening of markets. Japan cannot go it alone
with no foreign, professional management talent. Japan has to evolve, as other successful
countries have, from the belief that bringing in a foreigner is a sign of failure rather than
success in capturing the best global talent. A Japan-centric model based on capital and
technology only will no longer work domestically nor in the international connected system.
Outlook and Opportunities In Japan’s Bilateral Relationships
Japan–US
12. The public support for the alliance with the US remains strong, regardless of the DPJ’s
priority of rebalancing relations with Asia. Though the US military bases have been
unpopular for decades (particularly in Okinawa), Japan clearly prefers a US-led order to a
China-led order and therefore seeks to keep the status quo. Japanese leaders seem to be
not adequately aware that the Japan-US alliance positively impacts on other countries in
the region. China is now testing the strength of the alliance, most recently on the issue of
the Senkaku Islands. The seeming weakness of the Japan-US alliance is inviting China’s
more assertive behaviour, which worries other countries in the region as well. Some argue
that the alliance is solid but what matters more is perception: South East Asian countries, in
particular, are highly concerned about what is happening not only between Japan and
China but also between Japan and the US. The state of the alliance matters to Europe as
well. A couple of concrete examples: some defence experts say that given the series of
problems in the alliance, it is understandable that Japanese officials would not want to
upset their US friends further by considering the purchase of Eurofighter. If Japan
participates in the TPP, it may influence the EU’s position regarding the idea of a Japan-EU
EPA. In this regard, it should be remembered that one of the main drivers of the EU’s move
to conclude a Free Trade Agreement with South Korea was that the country was going to
conclude an FTA with the US. Speaking with a single voice vis-à-vis China needs to be one
of the core functions of the Japan-US alliance and should involve other like-minded
countries, including the EU.This is not a containment of but rather an encouragement of
China to be a responsible player in the international society. It is natural that Japan, the US,
Europe and other peer democracies need to coordinate their positions and speak in one
voice to influence China. The lessons of the West’s (particularly the EU’s) failure in this
regard vis-à-vis Russia need to be learned.
Japan–China
13. China ‘s economic growth is linked to communist party integrity. It is sometimes
forgotten that the Chinese Communist Party is also a nationalist party. Japan was a
historical enemy and can be positioned as a modern one when politically strategic
domestically for China to do so. Though China may have, for genuine nationalist reasons,
engaged strongly in the recent dispute over the Senkaku Islands, the diplomatic victory
was delivered to Japan, primarly though China’s ‘ own goal ‘ in what internationally was
seen as an overly aggressive approach prompting widespead support for Japan. This
negative reaction to China underscores the political tightrope that what may play well
domestically and be seen as patriotic and strong, can be detrimental externally and seen as
‘bullying’. The result of the incident is enhanced security confirmation from the US to Japan
and a reaching out from other Asian countries to the US, including potential for increased
military cooperation, as a counterbalance to a perceived threat by China seen as wishing to
7. dominate the region. In essence, the US can now claim to have been ‘ invited ‘ as an
honest broker into the region. Other key countries such as India and Australia are wishing
to talk with Japan about the future of China.
14. Yet Japan and China are now economically interdependent. China is Japan’s largest
trading partner with very significant Japanese FDI in China which represents the primary
external market driving growth for Japan. Japan is actively involved in regional policy
discussions with ASEAN, China, South Korea and Russia and is hoping to launch
negotiations for a new Action Plan with the European Commission when the last one
expires in 2011. It is clear that the best way to strengthen economic security in the region is
to bring issues of contention to the World Trade Organisation. There needs to be closer
liaison between the US and Japan to agree a strategy with other countries for a new set of
rules for security cooperation, perhaps a regional structure to manage security. Evidently
there are numerous fault lines requiring high level engagement on a new regional
architecture, perhaps linked to an East Asian Economic Community, learning from the EU
experience in that security in member states is now off the agenda. Perhaps like Germany
in Europe, Japan needs to find closure on its war history and to stop being a convenient
enemy for China to use when politically expedient to do so. A good first step would be to
stop the denial of war crimes by some senior Japanese politicians.
Outlook and Opportunities in Japan’s European Relationships
Japan–UK
15. When examining the relationship, it is useful to see where the common ground between
Japan and the UK is and where is the potential for future partnership. Foreign Secretary
William Hague has stated that UK’s goal with Japan is ‘to reaffirm our relationship and seek
a closer partnership in commerce and foreign policy’. The UK wants to work with Japan to
strengthen the global economy. Clearly, Japan matters to Britain as a major investor in the
UK and is an important trading partner. The UK is the second largest Japanese FDI
recipient in Europe and Japan is the UK’s largest partner in R&D. Both countries are going
through similar problems: low growth, large debt and an increasingly ageing population.
The UK government has taken hard decisions to deal with the deficit. Foreign and security
strategy is at the centre of government. In the 1970’s, Japan’s technology revolution
changed the way globally that people accessed media and culture. Today, almost all
households in Britain own Japanese products and Japanese companies now lead the world
in electric or hybrid cars. Interestingly, the large Japanese companies are now seen as
international and not necessarily Japanese. However, there is concern that there is a lack
of clear vision for the future from a Japan uncertain of its place in the world and the UK is
ready to work with Japan to restore confidence. One opportunity is to broker partnerships
between British and Japanese universities to promote exchanges of researchers and
students. Potentially, both countries could create joint university qualifications.
16. The UK is keen to work with Japan in driving a new commercial partnership with serious
consideration being given to the Hitachi bid for high speed rail despite budgetary pressures.
Reciprocally, Britain would like to see similar consideration from Japan for the Eurofighter
Typhoon. Trade and investment needs to be both ways. The Foreign Secretary supports a
UK/Japan Free Trade Agreement but to make this a reality, there needs to be a reduction in
trade barriers. For instance, it makes no sense that only 50% of medical devices sold in the
US and Europe are available in Japan. Equally, it takes 53.6 months to approve
biopharmaceuticals in Japan whereas it takes only 7.5 months in the EU. This means that it
takes longer for companies to get drugs into the Japanese markets and Japanese patients
have to wait longer to benefit from innovative medicines. This needs to change to enable
the European Commission to decide to launch negotiations.
8. Japan- EU
17. Back in 2001, Tokyo and Brussels had ambitious plans regarding international
economic, political and security co-operation when adopting the so-called ‘EU-Japan Action
Plan for Co-operation’ .This action plan, which is running out shortly, had a lot of plans and
declarations but fairly little concrete implementation. A list of more than 100 areas of
bilateral co-operation led to a lack of focus with too many issues and areas. Currently, a
core perceived problem is a lack of political will in the European Commission and Japan to
do more. There is an absence of urgency in areas of international politics and security.
Despite many protocols and declarations, there are few joint policies, apart from a recent
exception on envisioned joint police training. With the EU focus on China over recent years,
there has been no diversification of Japanese foreign and security policies. Much ongoing
security dialogue has taken place on nuclear disarmament, ballistic missile proliferation,
human rights including joint sponsorship of The International Criminal Court (ICC), counter-
terrorism, Afghanistan and counter-piracy off Somalia. Equally, economic dialogue has
focused on high level trade dialogue and issues like intellectual property rights and energy
policy.
18. However, there has been no sense of urgency or new security or economic initiatives in
a rapidly changing global environment. At the EU-Japan Summit in April 2010, the high
level group were charged with the task of ‘conducting a joint examination of the ways to
comprehensively strengthen and integrate the Japan-EU economic relationship addressing
all issues of interest to both sides including, for instance, all tariffs, non-tariff measures,
services, investment in services and non-services sectors, intellectual property rights and
government procurement’. The conclusion was ‘at the summit meeting in 2011, summit
leaders will decide on any appropriate next steps based on the outcome and the options for
the further strengthening of Japan-EU political and economic relations identified by the joint
‘High-Level Group’’’. Current EU- Japan stances on an FTA remain an obstacle to
progress. Tokyo is keen to progress, particularly after the recent EU Korea FTA but
Brussels is not yet prepared to commit to negotiations until Japan makes more progress on
reducing non-tariff barriers to trade. Japan argues that the EU is protecting European
automobile and electronics industry (the EU imposes 10 % tariff duties on imports of
Japanese cars and 14 % on electronics).
19. Though the need for a meaningful action plan is clear, this will only happen if EU-Japan
attempts to solve the issues on the bilateral trade and investment agenda are successful.
Were a new action plan to succeed, it would need to focus on fewer areas and issues to be
tackled together. The emphasis should be on soft power projection in security cooperation
in Asia and beyond as well as development aid, climate change and environmental policies.
Japan: Prospects for a Developing Regional Role
20. Given the relative decline of US supremacy and the rise of China, there are strong
reasons for Japan to work as a lynchpin for the US’s stabilising involvement in the region.
Specifically Japan should do more with US support to build its own defensive capacity
including submarines, navy and air power. It is time to review Japan’s defence capacity and
move away from outdated Cold War thinking. Given Japan’s dominance in technology and
manufacturing, it is no longer logical to have negligible arms exports and time to rethink the
Three Principles on Arms Exports. Japan should sustain its US presence, deepening the
alliance to further the 2005 joint strategic objectives regarding China, Korea, and Russia,
whilst enhancing deterrence dialogue and contingency planning regarding North Korea.
21. Japan should take a lead role to create networks with like minded countries on shared
interests at a regional level e.g. tsunami response. It should engage more fully with the
increasing number of issues requiring a global approach such as nuclear disarmament.
Specifically, such groups can have both the will and capability to act quickly and decisively.
These groups could be trilateral e.g. Japan-US-Australia or Japan-US-South Korea or could
decisively expand e.g. Japan-South Korea –Australia –NATO- India. Japan needs to
support the next generation of regional stars in Asia including Indonesia, Vietnam and The
9. Philippines. New and effective channels of communication could open up e.g. Japan-US-
China and Japan-US-Russia. Equally, in the face of common threats, Japan needs to
strengthen its weakest links: relationships with South Korea and with Russia. Japan should
take a consultative lead role in rule making. The rising powers do not necessarily respect
the status-quo rules of international engagement making this a necessary and important
focus. Evidently, Japan as a respected member of the global community needs to take a
flexible view, engaging with the WTO, regional or global groups as required. The preferred
method is for Japan to link with core like-minded countries to facilitate a group approach to
critical issues like economic security, diversification and internet freedom, maintaining
strategic lines of communication with the US, EU and India as well as G20 and G6+1. At a
more regional level, a critical relationship is with the East Asia Summit as well as
developing strategic links with key ASEAN countries such as Indonesia and Vietnam.
22. Japan can no longer attempt to be all things to all nations and needs to define its
regional role. Japan is a liberal, values-based country, an ally of the US and a working
partner of China, ROK and ASEAN. Isolation is dangerous for Japan as this would allow
others to determine its regional relations at a time when Japan is threatened by the DPRK
and by China. Other countries in the region have low expectations from Japan but high
hopes. It is expected to continue to ally with the US on security matters and to provide ODA
and technology expertise. Japan should present an alternative leadership model in Asia to
China’s rise. The power balance between Japan and its neighbours has already begun to
shift. In the coming years, Japan needs to chart its own economic path. It must increase
R&D spending. Last year, there were more Chinese research papers than US ones. Japan
needs to reestablish its ability to lead on trade issues or will simply be left behind. Given
China’s significant military expansion and increased threat level to Japan and the region,
Japan needs far more investment in its own defence capacity. Japan has already lost
political momentum to China in the region. Similarly, in the Asia relationship with the US,
the ROK has taken the initiative whilst the regional architecture is being shaped by ASEAN.
The only way that Japan can move forward is to accept the burdens of a leadership role
and take bold initiatives on core issues of security and democracy both bilaterally and
multilaterally. It needs to make the significant investments required to work with networks of
like-minded nations to protect the political, economic and maritime security of the region.
Japan’s Role in Global Low Carbon Transformation
23. Japan clearly has a strong future role in aiding global environmental progress and
mitigating climate change. However, its political will to do so was declared too late with
policy design already in progress. Low carbon investment is a key component of its
economic growth strategy. Japanese technology is still competitive but is losing superiority
because of delayed policy decisions and lack of systematic thinking. It sometimes feels that
Japan is locked into past glory and underestimating the threat of being overtaken by
emerging countries. Japan still has significant financial resources but these are not used to
optimal effect. It maintains a geopolitical advantage in Asia but is being caught up by South
Korea and China. At the time of the Kyoto agreement, Japan had visible leadership in
creating a low carbon world but this has faded. At the Copenhagen summit, Japan was
present but practically invisible, allowing the debate on climate change to be dominated by
the US and China. Kyoto-fever is now fading out with Japan worryingly aiming at a more
substantial and quiet contribution to the low carbon world. In negotiations, Japan strongly
requests equal status for its role but its lack of visibility clearly damages its credentials. It
would be far more productive for Japan to first publicise and carefully brand its contribution
and then seek the respect and status due. The world is becoming low carbon and Japan,
as in other areas, must decide to lead or be forced to follow. Japan has manifest strengths
but needs to link domestic policy and international positions, balancing environmental
aspirations with economic pragmatism.
10. Japan and International Institutions: Developing Key Relationships
24. The past 50 years has seen Japan as a consistently top source of development
assistance overseas. Japan is the second largest supplier of capital to the World Bank. In
its June 2010 report on ODA Review, Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs presented a new
way forward for Japan’s ODA, identifying 3 Pillars of Development Cooperation: reducing
poverty (contributing to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals), investing
in peace, and supporting sustainable growth (with emphasis on the MDGs and including
assistance for climate change and other environmental issues). The new way forward is
underpinned by the focus on: strategic and effective aid, taking a leadership role in the
international community, human resource development, promotion of public understanding
and support, reinforcing policy-making functions and implementation capacity.
25. The world needs nations like Japan to help achieve the MDGs. It has proven knowledge
in helping the developing world.The World Bank welcomed the commitment made by Prime
Minister Kan at the UN MDG Summit in September 2010, ($8.5 billion over five years
starting in 2011) to help improve the health of mothers and babies as well as education
services in poor countries. The World Bank will continue to look to, and rely on, Japan’s
contribution and leadership in strengthening cooperation and promoting donor harmony.
26. Yet Japan does not have a clear strategy in its relationship with and membership of the
UN, IMF, World Bank and WTO. Japan’s position as the world’s largest creditor and still
arguably the second largest economy often appears to be insufficiently recognised by these
key international institutions when they face fundamental challenges. The transition to a
G20 will not necessarily make G8 irrelevant as both will continue to play their respective
roles. G7 is more like a self appointed board of directors of the world economy, whereas
G20 is more like a shareholders meeting representing different forces within the global
economic community. The crisis which has made the creation of the G20 process
necessary is also undermining well established international economic institutions such as
the IMF and WTO. Multilateralism is weakening, with trade policy now focussing more on
bilateral and regional free trade agreements. Japan is not immune and pursues FTAs and
RTAs, hence the recent internal debate on whether to join the Trans Pacific Partnership
agreement negotiations promoted by the US and some others around the Pacific Rim.
Japan, being one of the greatest beneficiaries of the success of the Bretton Woods
institutions and the WTO, should rather be taking the lead in calling on all governments to
resist their political instincts for seeking immediate export gains which undermine the hard
won fruits of multilateral cooperation.
27. APEC today comprises 21 so called “economies” in the Asia Pacific region. It was
created at the end of the 1980s with the initiative of Japan and Australia as a regional
economic cooperation forum and to keep the US engaged in the Asia Pacific region.
Another motivation for APEC’s creation was to give due attention to the newly
industrialising economies, as well as to bring China, together with Taiwan, into a community
of market oriented economies. They became members in 1991. This was possible due to
APEC’s adherence to the principle of separation of politics and economics, and thus APEC
membership has been open to so-called “economies” and not limited to sovereign states.
For China and Chinese Taipei, participation in APEC was the precursor to their accession
to the WTO in 2001. The importance to China of its membership in the WTO cannot be
overemphasized. APEC, unlike FTA negotiations, is not a negotiating body for binding
commitments. It promotes trade and investment liberalisation through voluntary measures
and peer pressure. It subscribes to the principle of so-called “open regionalism”, and it
reinforces multilateralism. Aspiring to play a more active role in international peace and
security, Japan, with the backing of increased economic capabilities, undertook actively to
contribute to the peacemaking efforts of the UN as well as to the process of UN reform.
However, its pursuit of a permanent membership on the Security Council has not yet been
fulfilled. A sea change is brewing in the global distribution of power from West to East.
Japan is uniquely positioned to underpin the effectiveness of the UN as an international
organisation devoted to peace and security.
11. Cooperation in Third Country Environments: Where Japan Can Add
Value
28. Japan plays a vital role in development cooperation in the South. The Japanese
approach of “think together and work together”, which emphasizes self-help and ownership,
contributes to expanding the capacity of people in developing countries to achieve and
sustain the Millennium Development Goals and enhances opportunities for using their
latent capabilities. In September, the UN summit on the MDGs concluded that the Goals
are attainable by 2015 if the international community is united in its efforts. Japan
committed to contribute $8.5 billion for health and education for the next five years. This
emphasis on local initiative reflects Japan’s own modernisation experience. In the latter half
of the 19th century, Japan strived to catch up with Western countries by importing their
technologies and institutions. Western experts, technicians and educators came to Japan to
impart technology and knowledge, but the Japanese did not accept Western ideas and
technologies without adapting them to local conditions. Their success, in fact, was due
largely to the modification of external factors to fit local needs and conditions. Another
feature of Japan’s international cooperation is its readiness to provide grant aid and
concession loans to build physical infrastructure such as roads, water supply facilities,
schools, hospitals and irrigation systems. In many cases, infrastructure projects are
accompanied by capacity development cooperation for community people, local
administrators and government officials so that the projects can be sustained and even
scaled up by local initiative. Japan maintains 93 ODA field offices, with 400 officials as long-
term residents, assisted on a contract basis by more than 5,000 Japanese experts with long
experience of working in developing countries. Japan has discovered that enormous energy
and abundant resources can be mobilised locally if the potential beneficiaries are actively
involved in the process. Local ownership and empowerment are crucial for any project to be
sustainable and scalable.
Outlook: Prospects and Strategies for Japan’s Global Role
29. Japan faces a core challenge to overcome a sense of uneasy introspection. There is
no time for complacency or delay as Japan is called upon to assume a leadership role. The
global context now is a multipolar and interconnected world with shifting alliances amidst a
scale of change that is vast and rapid. Japan, with its history of a homogeneous society,
needs to define its own identity in this complex world order. A comparison with the UK may
be useful. Japan finds strength in homogeneity whilst the UK is seeking strength in
diversity and multiculturalism. Regarding the business environment, FDI only accounts for
2.5% in Japan as opposed to 48.5 % in UK. A third “opening” of Japan would require
serious domestic reform including welcoming the vast pool of professional talent to be
found in Japanese women, and genuinely embracing a work life balance for Japanese
people including greater rights to family time and holidays. One useful comparison globally
is how the UK punches above its weight by engaging with its overlapping circles in the
North Atlantic, EU, Gulf, Africa and the Commonwealth. As Tony Blair said ‘ Britain is
European but not only European’. How can a similar approach work for Japan? Despite
cultural resistance to punching above its weight, and post war restrictions on hard power
and the centrality of the US Alliance, Japan can be both Japanese and Asian.
30. Japan is confident but too often defensive rather than engaged. A central theme is to
stay true to Japan’s traditions, values and contemporary strengths whilst maintaining the
regional and global architecture for the liberal, free trading, multicultural global system.
There is a need for security in a dangerous world and consequences to ignoring the
international framework e.g. currency. One unexpected development from the current crisis
is the real global threat from state capitalism and protectionism. There is increasing
competition for natural resources e.g. rare earths. The best response for Japan is to react
to the serious threat to Japan’s interests with its trading partners. Japan should not play
China at its own game but instead project its own soft power and provide alternative and
consultative leadership for Asia. Japan’s corporate competitiveness is under threat, not
helped by the low number of Japanese students now studying abroad compared to those
12. from China and South Korea. Japan urgently needs to internationalise and communicate
better, developing a Japan national brand strategy to counter the often negative media
stories about Japan. Furthermore, there is a need to embrace non Japanese in mainstream
management. Ignoring the global talent pool for a continued reliance on 1% of the world
population (ie. Japanese males) limits potential. Japan needs to develop soft skills to
actively market, brand and sell Japan.
31. Global competition will be based on knowledge and IPR not manufacturing (for
example, 80% of Nokia profits are in Finland while 80% of parts are from Japan). Japan
must win the battle for ideas underpinned by Japan’s strengths and commitments :
democracy, human rights, ODA, social cohesion, welfare, low crime, rules based within
international system, education, corporate compliance, technology and commercial
expertise. Japan needs to activate its circles of influence: its immediate neighbourhood of
Korea and China, wider East Asia, ASEAN + 3 , APEC and NATO + 4. Accepting that the
US Alliance is central at political, economic and military levels, Japan should also embrace
a stronger relationship with the EU as two soft global powers with shared values and
interests in a multilateral frameword. The 27 EU member states would be a good place to
start expanding Japan’s sphere of influence, given Japan’s historic role as an East/West
bridge, while deeply embedded in Asian architecture. Japan could and should lead a virtual
EU in fast growth Asia Pacific. Whether realised or not, there would be great value in the
process of building an East Asia Economic Community. No other plateau has the scale and
ability to embed China, India and others in the liberal global architecture. This could focus
on interdependent, multilateral issues: rule making, climate change, capacity building,
food/water security, WTO standards, development (ASEAN/Mekong), human rights,
democracy. Only Japan, trusted by both the EU and US, can bring global best practice to
Asia and can lead that process from within the region.
Martin Murray
4 January 2011
Wilton Park reports are brief summaries of the main points and conclusions of a
conference. The reports reflect rapporteurs’ personal interpretations of the proceedings –
as such they do not constitute any institutional policy of Wilton Park nor do they necessarily
represent the views of the rapporteur.
Should you wish to read other Wilton Park reports, or participate in upcoming Wilton Park
conferences, please consult our website www.wiltonpark.org.uk.
To receive our e-newsletter and latest updates on conferences subscribe to
www.wiltonpark.org.uk/news