Part 11/15:
Japan’s approach to China is nuanced. While it seeks to counterbalance China’s influence through alliances and resilience-building, it also values sustained engagement, recognizing China’s economic significance. Japan’s commitment to multi-dimensional diplomacy extends to non-traditional security issues like climate change, anti-piracy, and pandemic response, seeking a stable, rules-based regional order.
The recent 50th anniversary of Japan-China diplomatic relations was a subdued affair—indicating cautious optimism amid persistent mutual mistrust. Japan remains wary of Chinese economic coercion and territorial assertiveness, yet understands that strategic disengagement could be detrimental.