Japan's Multifaceted Approach to Trump
Former Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso, a senior figure in the country's ruling party, met with Donald Trump on Tuesday, reflecting Japan's ongoing efforts to engage with the Republican presidential candidate. This meeting comes amidst concerns that a potential Trump victory could lead to protectionist trade measures or other actions detrimental to the Japanese economy and strong defense ties with the U.S.
This meeting follows a recent announcement by U.S. President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Fumio Kishida regarding plans for military cooperation and projects aimed at strengthening the U.S.-Japan alliance. However, with polls indicating a close race between Trump and Biden, Japan is taking steps to maintain ties with both sides.
Aso, 83, brings decades of experience in shaping U.S.-Japan relations to the table. He served as deputy prime minister under the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who cultivated a close relationship with Trump during his presidency. Nicholas Szechenyi, Japan chair at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, highlights Aso's ability to bridge the Abe-Trump era and provide insights into the evolution of U.S.-Japan relations.
Japan's approach to Trump extends beyond this meeting, encompassing a multifaceted strategy. In recent months, emissaries have been sent to meet with Trump allies and potential policymakers at Trump-aligned think tanks. Additionally, Abe's interpreter, Sunao Takao, is among those tasked with bolstering ties.
This outreach mirrors similar efforts by other world leaders, including Polish President Andrzej Duda, British Foreign Secretary David Cameron, and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who have all met with Trump in recent months. These interactions underscore the global recognition of Trump's potential influence and the desire to maintain open channels of communication.