Japan, U.S.: A Mutual Strategic Concern

Japan and the United States will meet Feb. 19 for "two-plus-two" talks on the alliance between the two nations. It has been widely leaked that the joint statement to be released at the end of the meeting will for the first time include a clear delineation of Taiwan as a key strategic issue for Japan. This only vocalizes moves Japan already has taken in association with the United States to encapsulate Taiwan in the Japanese defense sphere. While these moves clearly show that the United States considers China the greatest threat to its interests in East Asia, the Chinese leadership senses a long-term opportunity for an alliance with the United States against Japan.