Comment on “The ‘China or Us’ Dichotomy Limits Japan’s Ability to Strengthen Ties: So, What Attitude Should Japan Adopt?” [in Japanese]
On December 14, 2023, a comment of Professor Maiko Ichihara of the Graduate School of Law on the Asahi Shimbun article, “The ‘China or Us’ Dichotomy Limits Japan’s Ability to Strengthen Ties: So, What Attitude Should Japan Adopt?” was published. The article is based on an interview with Professor Mie Oba of Kanagawa University regarding how the relationship between Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has evolved, and what kind of relationship should be built in the future as the struggle for supremacy between the U.S. and China becomes more intense. Professor Ichihara stressed the need for Japan to show that it will not overlook human rights abuses, and to continue dialogue with authoritarian countries. She commented on the need to strengthen our voice in diplomacy, not only through the government but also by utilizing think tanks and other non-governmental channels.
