The election of Shigeru Ishiba, an advocate for an “Asian Nato”, as Japan’s new prime minister has opened up a new chapter in Tokyo’s relations with Beijing and other Asia-Pacific neighbors. Ishiba, a popular outsider in Japanese politics known for his unique style and military expertise, is seen as a moderate on China who supports engaging with Beijing while seeking a more balanced alliance with Washington.
Despite the strained relations under the previous prime minister, Fumio Kishida, Ishiba offers hope for improved ties with China, especially due to his reluctance to visit the Yasukuni Shrine, a site honoring Japan’s war dead, including war criminals. However, optimism in China’s state-controlled media may be short-lived, as previous leaders perceived as China-friendly have taken a tougher stance towards Beijing in recent years.
The dynamic between Ishiba, China, and the US, particularly under the departing President Joe Biden, will shape the future of Asia-Pacific relations in the coming years. Ishiba’s leadership brings a nuanced approach to Japan’s foreign policy that will have far-reaching implications.