On December 7, Japanese Foreign Minister Aso Taro delivered a policy speech on Asia at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Japan. In his speech, Minister Aso defined Japan’s role within the context of Asia by articulating the following three concepts:
- Japan as a “Thought Leader” for Asian countries – trailblazer through hands-on practice
- Japan as an internal “Stabilizer” for the region – the oldest democratic nation and the oldest market economy in Asia
- Japan as a “Country Respecting Other Nations as Peers and Equals” – approaching other nations as partners on equal/P2P (“peer to peer”) footing
Minister Aso also touched on the issue of China as well as regional security issues and economic situation in Asia. In welcoming the rise of China, he pointed out the significance of steps towards the market economy and democracy, referring to the path of “Peace and Happiness through Economic Prosperity” taken by an increasing number of ASEAN countries.
Click here to view the transcript of the entire speech.
[Related Links]
* Mr. Taro Aso, Minister for Foreign Affairs, to Attend ASEAN+3 Ministerial Meeting, Japan-ASEAN Ministerial Meeting, EAS Ministerial Meeting, etc.
* General Information on East Asia Summit (EAS)
* APEC Ministerial Meeting in Busan, Republic of Korea (Overview and Evaluation)
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