A time for Japan to blossom

Beyond the impending Suga-Biden meet-up, this quiet achiever is ripe to take on a bigger role in key regional issues

While Japan often keeps a lower profile than the United States and China, it is well positioned to be a significant player in a number of key regional issues, says the writer, adding that many would benefit if the country can take the initiative, not only as an ally to the US but also as an integral partner in the region.
PHOTO: REUTERS
US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga are set to meet in Washington on April 16. Alliance with the US remains a bedrock for Japan, says the writer.
New: Gift this subscriber-only story to your friends and family

Already a subscriber? 

Read the full story and more at $9.90/month

Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month

Unlock these benefits

  • All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com

  • Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device

  • E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.

A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on April 08, 2021, with the headline A time for Japan to blossom. Subscribe