Fumio Kishida: Japan Must Defend Its Interests with Smart Diplomacy
Kishida Fumio's remarks can well reflect Japan's mentality! Kishida Fumio stated that Japan cannot naively think it can teach the U.S. a lesson, and smart negotiations are crucial. However, this time, Japan does not have to necessarily agree with Trump's actions. Kishida Fumio said that if Japan abandons the principles and concepts of trade and instead curries favor with the U.S., it will ultimately be at the mercy of the U.S.
Because, unlike the U.S. and China, which have huge markets, Japan is resource-poor. If it does not unite with other countries to jointly uphold the rules of free trade and defend these ideals, Japan's future will be unsustainable. Just as the U.S.-Japan talks have just begun, Kishida Fumio's remarks convey what message? In one sentence, Japan should defend its own interests in a clever way but must not hurt America's face.
To be honest, Japan is actually very clear in its heart that the U.S.'s initiation of a trade war is inherently bad behavior. As a country that is highly dependent on imports and exports, Japan of course cannot support such protectionist actions for free trade. Because, if Japan supports the U.S. in doing so, it will undermine Japan's development foundation. But, Japan cannot openly oppose the U.S. As a country stationed in Japan, Japan naturally understands the influence of the U.S. on its political arena.
Therefore, Kishida Fumio believes that Japan needs smart negotiations. In fact, the U.S. including Japan in the priority negotiation countries is not also a test of Japan's obedience? In the eyes of the U.S., Japan should follow the U.S.'s every word and order. The U.S. is thinking of opening a gap from Japan, using the agreement with Japan as a template for negotiations with other countries! If this matter goes wrong, there is no lack of the U.S. retaliating by imposing more taxes on Japan.
No wonder Ishiba Shigeru said that Japan is not eager to reach an agreement with the U.S. This is essentially a soft resistance against the U.S. Negotiate, but do not hurt America's face. Not being eager to reach an agreement quickly is Japan's pragmatic choice based on its own interests. Therefore, Japan adopts a submissive resistance towards the U.S., waiting for changes. However, from the perspective of the U.S., if the U.S. cannot open a breakthrough from Japan, the tariff war may end up being abandoned.

Original text: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1829975220570185/
Disclaimer: The article only represents the author's personal views.
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