Monday, 13 February 2017

US-Japan friendship set to continue

Posted by Fort Financial Services at 13:37 Labels:

President Donald Trump and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe met on Friday at the White House to discuss the future of US-Japan international relations. The US leader opted for a moderate and respectful rhetoric, avoiding accusations of Japan stealing jobs mentioned during his presidential campaign. Don’t believe me? Check his comment:
"The bond between our two nations and the friendship between our two peoples runs very, very deep. This administration is committed to bringing those ties even closer," said Trump.
The US administration reaffirmed its commitment to improve Japan’s defense, promising “further strengthening” of their alliance. But… what does it mean in terms of international relations?
Well… let’s see. Japan and China are clearly not best friends. In recent times, there has been important military challenges because of China’s maritime activities in the East China Sea, a territory in dispute between both Asian countries. Therefore, Trump seems to be sending a message about which side he will support in case of a future escalation.
During Obama’s presidency, there was a sort of status quo in terms of relations with Asian partners, providing military support to Japan but keeping great trade relations with China. Not with Trump. The Republican leader is all about sides and he has already taken one.
But security hasn’t been the only topic discussed by the leaders. Economy was certainly another key issue on the table. Abe said he was “fully aware” of Trump’s decision to withdraw the US from the so-called Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) earlier this year.
Considering Trump’s new economic approach, both nations have agreed on a new framework to discuss economic matters. Sources reported that no potential trade deals were mentioned in the meeting. However, there are chances that US Vice President Mike Pence and Japanese Deputy PM Taro Aso will address economic issues, including infrastructure projects quite soon.
Key points to remember:
  • Continuing military support for Japan
  • Trump agrees to visit Japan later this year
  • New framework for economic negotiations


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