But the lessons of the past few years clearly demonstrate the consequences of assuming that Japan is losing its significance in international affairs. The fact is Japan remains our most important strategic partner in Asia. Indeed, Japan may be the only power other than Russia and the United States that has some level of influence and presence in every corner of the globe. And few U.S. policy goals can be achieved without active support from Tokyo. The task of the next U.S. administration should be obvious, though not necessarily easy.
Japan seeks a close alliance with the United States but also a more independent identity.
Japan's political leadership gives no face or coherent strategy to what is nonetheless a cohesive, persistent, and increasingly assertive worldview. Small issues related to the maintenance of U.S. bases or reducing barriers like the NTT access fees will therefore consume more time from senior U.S. policymakers, crowding out the larger strategic issues that we should really be coordinating. Several steps will help. First, the United States should raise the bar of expectations for Japan. Tokyo must share not only financial responsibilities, but also risk, if it wants a larger voice.