Blog
Tokyo Report
Japan to Co-develop Future Fighter F-X With UK
By Takahashi Kosuke
Japan may choose BAE Systems, not Lockheed Martin, to support Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in developing next-generation fighter aircraft.
Okinawa Marks 50 Years of End to US Rule Amid Protests
By Mari Yamaguchi
Fifty years after Okinawa was returned to Japan’s control, locals continue to decry the outsized burden the island group carries in the Japan-U.S. security alliance.
Japan’s Food Self-Sufficiency Debate Overlooks the Core Problem
By Yusaku Yoshikawa
It will be difficult to boost agricultural production without addressing the dwindling workforce in the sector.
Japan’s Weak Yen Hampers Its Post-COVID Recovery
By Thisanka Siripala
The Japanese yen has tumbled to its lowest level, pinching household purses and clouding Japan’s economic outlook.
Japan’s Moment to Act on Forced Labor in Supply Chains
By Airin Ri and Anasuya Syam
Despite past commitments, Japan is the only G-7 member that has not imposed sanctions on Beijing for its state policy of forced labor.
Japan’s Foreign Minister to Attend South Korean President’s Inauguration
By Mari Yamaguchi
The decision to send Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa to Seoul signals Japan’s willingness to improve dialogue with South Korea. President-elect Yoon has made similar overtures.
What the 2022 Diplomatic Blue Book Reveals About Japan’s Taiwan Policy
By Victor Lin
Japan’s concerns about stability in the Taiwan Strait have resulted in a new focus on the issue.
What’s Behind Japan’s Continued COVID-19 Border Restrictions?
By Thisanka Siripala
Japan remains closed to international tourists and has not yet made plans to reopen despite a global trend to lift pandemic entry restrictions.
Explaining the Impasse in Japan’s Relations with North Korea
By ISOZAKI Atsuhito
Pyongyang is dismissive of Tokyo, but the latter still has an important card to play.
Under Kishida, Tokyo Sharpens Its Focus on Cambodia
By Luke Hunt
Prime Minister Hun Sen has requested a “comprehensive strategic partnership” with Japan.
Japan’s New Diplomatic Bluebook: Revised by the Russia-Ukraine War
By Daisuke Akimoto
Japan has changed its approach to Russia compared to past editions of the annual report. Has Tokyo given up on a peace treaty with Moscow?
Is Japan Willing to Pay the Price of Sanctioning Russia?
By Christopher Edward Carroll
Prime Minister Kishida has moved forward with sanctions on Russia after its invasion of Ukraine. So far the public is willing to shoulder the economic burden.