BLUF
This ASPI article argues that the strong Australia –Japan relationship is likely to continue under new Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.Summary
Australia and Japan are key strategic partners. Former Japanese Prime Minister Abe was committed to the relationship.
Key points about his replacement Fumio Kishida are:
- Previously Japan’s longest-serving foreign minister under Abe.
- Member for Hiroshima and passionate about the abolition of nuclear weapons.
- Keen to work with nations with similar values to confront China.
- Accepts that Japan must be strong to stand up to China.
- Defeated Sanae Takaichi for prime minister. She would have been more likely to pursue a formal alliance with Australia.
- Likely to prove a good ‘second best’ for Australian interests.
The author notes:
- AUKUS is beneficial to Australia.
- If Australia needs nuclear submarines, Japan probably needs them even more.
- Post-Fukushima, Japan’s nuclear technology is declining, and it has no equivalent of Rolls Royce nuclear submarine expertise.
References
- Sep 2021 The Conversation Who is Fumio Kishida, Japan’s new prime minister?
- Oct 2021 Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan Japan-Australia Relations
- Oct 2021 Kyodo News Japan, Australia leaders to work toward free, open Indo-Pacific
- Oct 2021 the Japan Times Kishida uses new Cabinet to signal continuity to allies and China
