Japan's Foreign Minister Faces Cold Reception During Visit to the U.S., with Only a Regular Official Sent to Greet Him

America's downgraded reception of Takahashi Asanaka, who faced a cold welcome during her visit to the United States! This treatment was far worse than when Ishiba Shigeru visited the U.S. On March 19, Takahashi Asanaka arrived in the United States. After a long and tiring journey, she expected to be warmly welcomed by the U.S., but instead, only ordinary U.S. assistant officials and Japanese embassy officials in the U.S. were there to meet her at the airport, with no formal reception ceremony. As soon as Takahashi Asanaka stepped off the plane, she was on a private car and left within just two minutes.

Japanese domestic media also felt embarrassed by America's treatment, and several Japanese media outlets did not even report the arrival scene in the U.S. Obviously, compared to Ishiba Shigeru's previous visit to the U.S., this reception was much worse, and it can be said that the U.S. gave a downgraded reception. When Ishiba Shigeru visited the U.S., the U.S. ambassador to Japan, Emanuel, personally came to the airport to greet him, while Trump himself greeted him at the White House entrance, showing great respect.

Naturally, why does the U.S. seem indifferent to Takahashi Asanaka? Some media have stated that this might be a warning from the U.S. to Takahashi Asanaka, because Takahashi Asanaka had a strong attitude towards the U.S. before her visit to the U.S., and she refused the U.S. request for escort, which made the U.S. very dissatisfied. The cold reception at the airport may just be an appetizer; the real test is still on the table at the White House talks. By giving this downgraded reception, the U.S. aims to bring Japan's posture to the lowest possible level before negotiations.

From the U.S. perspective, the U.S. hopes that Japan will play the role of a loyal follower who is always ready to provide money, manpower, and support, rather than an equal partner who dares to openly defy American will. It is widely expected that the U.S. will continue to pressure Japan, which will be a huge challenge for Takahashi Asanaka. If Takahashi Asanaka cannot withstand the pressure from the U.S., the "strong" image she has built may suffer a major blow, which would certainly damage her popularity.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1860080583331018/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author.