The topic this time is Prime Minister Kishida’s diplomacy.
I would like to tentatively share contents of the article of Diamond Online posted on February 19, written by Mr. Ken'ichi Ogura, Director of the Ithmose Research institute.
Mr. Ogura stresses as follows.
Japan must have a strong sense of commitment to the crisis of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Depending on how it responds to the crisis, Japan may or may not be able to obtain the support of the international community in the event of a "Japan emergency," including an invasion of Taiwan by China.
Nonetheless, Kishida's diplomacy lacks consistency and coherence, adding to the sense of unease.
Japan is losing its presence in the increasingly tense situation in Ukraine.
The U.S. has strongly warned of the possibility of an invasion of Ukraine by Russia and called on its allies to respond in step with the U.S. and Europe, but the administration of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has shown his indecisiveness.
In addition to issues such as soaring energy prices and the protection of Japanese nationals living there, there is still uncertainty about how to respond to the Taiwan contingency, which is also a concern for the United States.
Will Prime Minister Kishida be able to protect Japan in the event of an emergency?
Tensions are rising in the region around the Ukrainian border due to the buildup of Russian troops and other factors, and the situation continues to be unpredictable.
There is a growing possibility that the situation will deteriorate rapidly.
The government of Japan is watching these developments with grave concern and is highly alert.
Japan has consistently supported Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and will respond appropriately in cooperation with the international community. .....
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