Japan's Election: Good for Asia?
"Japan's election, while historic, centered mainly on domestic issues.
This shows an inward-looking Japan that seems unable to fully
participate in Asian regionalism and new thinking in the wake of the
financial crisis," says Asia Society Bernard Schwartz Fellow Simon Tay.
"The key issue to watch is whether the newly empowered Democratic Party
of Japan really rebalances its relationship with the United States. If
so, this has broader implications for the rest of Asia. In some ways it
may be less stable. But if the result is a Japan that is more focused on
Asia, this can help regional cooperation."
"The likelihood exists that the DPJ leadership cannot manage well and
Japan will be adrift both economically and politically. This would not
be good for Asia."
Simon is in New York. To arrange an interview, please contact the Asia
Society communications department at 212-327-9271 or [email protected].
This shows an inward-looking Japan that seems unable to fully
participate in Asian regionalism and new thinking in the wake of the
financial crisis," says Asia Society Bernard Schwartz Fellow Simon Tay.
"The key issue to watch is whether the newly empowered Democratic Party
of Japan really rebalances its relationship with the United States. If
so, this has broader implications for the rest of Asia. In some ways it
may be less stable. But if the result is a Japan that is more focused on
Asia, this can help regional cooperation."
"The likelihood exists that the DPJ leadership cannot manage well and
Japan will be adrift both economically and politically. This would not
be good for Asia."
Simon is in New York. To arrange an interview, please contact the Asia
Society communications department at 212-327-9271 or [email protected].