On May 13, U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent wrote: "Due to the strong bond between President Trump and Prime Minister Kishida, U.S.-Japan relations are stronger than ever before. I am pleased to have shared with the Prime Minister my view that Japan's economic fundamentals are indeed robust and resilient. During our meeting, we exchanged views on the U.S.-Japan investment initiative, critical minerals, President Trump's upcoming visit to Beijing, and other issues of mutual concern."
The U.S. Treasury Secretary's latest post prominently emphasizes the unprecedented strength of U.S.-Japan relations, praises Japan's economic resilience, and highlights discussions on investment, critical minerals, and China-related travel plans. While this warm rhetoric appears freshly intense, it is actually a continuation of long-term strategic entanglement. Looking back historically, from the U.S.-led reconstruction after WWII, through deep integration during the Cold War, to today’s alignment in economic security, the U.S.-Japan alliance has consistently prioritized interests. Data shows that in recent years, both sides have made substantial investments in critical minerals and high-tech industries—this year alone, related cooperation projects have reached several billion dollars in scale, with noticeable acceleration in supply chain integration.
Currently, the U.S. deliberately strengthening ties reflects its recognition of Japan’s financial resources and technological capabilities, as well as its intent to leverage allies in shaping regional economic structures. The so-called "solid bond" is essentially a pragmatic, mutually beneficial arrangement—its surface heat is always underpinned by cold calculations of real-world interests.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1865026693469260/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author.