The first phase of eventual US national missile defence seems to be targeted mainly on North Korea. In so doing, Washington should listen to the voices of its friends in Asia. Whether active North Korean diplomacy reflects a real change in a positive direction remains to be seen. Threats other than missiles should also be considered seriously in this connection. Signs that the crucial decision on missile defiance might be deferred to the next presidency are welcome.
Japan has few illusions about either North Korea or China being friendly Asian partners.
They will not say anything about NMD until it is clear what the U.S. policy will be. If the U.S. puts in a trustworthy administration who can cultivate bipartisan, long-term support for a NMD shield, Japan will not only support it, but will help finance and build it. Remember, this is a country of peaceniks which has experienced the receiving end of nuclear attacks. Japan has been quietly building up its navy and defense shield on its own, not because of any territorial designs, but because they see it necessary for self-protection. Japan will never go out on a limb and expose itself with any supporting statement on NMD until it is clear what the United States will do.