PACIFISM

• Pacifism is a belief or philosophy that advocates for non-violence and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
• It opposes war and violence as a means to achieve political, social, or ideological goals. Pacifists typically believe in resolving conflicts through dialogue, negotiation, diplomacy, and nonviolent resistance.
• They often emphasize the importance of understanding, empathy, and compassion in resolving disputes.
• Pacifism can be motivated by various factors, including moral or religious beliefs, humanitarian concerns, or a commitment to social justice and human rights.

3. The bilateral military alliance between Japan and the United States

• The bilateral military alliance between Japan and the United States is known as the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security between the United States and Japan, often referred to simply as the "U.S.-Japan Security Treaty" or the "Japan-U.S. Security Treaty."
• It was signed in 1960 and has been a cornerstone of security and defence cooperation between the two countries ever since.
• Under the treaty, both countries agree to support each other in the event of an armed attack against either party in the territories under the administration of Japan.
• It allows for the presence of U.S. military forces in Japan and the use of Japanese territory as a base for U.S. military operations in the Asia-Pacific region.
• The treaty has been seen as crucial for maintaining stability and security in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in light of various security challenges, including territorial disputes and the North Korean nuclear threat.
• However, it has also been a subject of debate and controversy in Japan, with some critics arguing that it infringes on Japanese sovereignty and others questioning the extent of Japan's reliance on the United States for its defence.

4. Indo-Pacific and its significance

The concept of the Indo-Pacific refers to a geopolitical and geostrategic region that encompasses the Indian Ocean and the western and central Pacific Ocean. It represents a broader understanding of the Asia-Pacific region by incorporating the Indian Ocean into the traditional framework. The term gained prominence in recent years as countries, particularly those bordering the Indian and Pacific Oceans, recognized the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of these two regions.

The significance of the Indo-Pacific lies in several key factors

• The region is home to some of the world's fastest-growing economies, including China, India, Japan, and several Southeast Asian countries. It serves as a vital hub for global trade and commerce, with major sea routes passing through its waters, facilitating the movement of goods and energy resources.
• The Indo-Pacific is of strategic importance due to its geopolitical position and the presence of major maritime chokepoints, such as the Strait of Malacca and the South China Sea. These waterways are crucial for international shipping and trade, making them key areas of interest for regional and global powers.
• The region faces various security challenges, including territorial disputes, maritime piracy, terrorism, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Tensions over territorial claims in the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean have raised concerns about regional stability and security.
• The Indo-Pacific has become a focal point for diplomatic and strategic engagements among countries seeking to shape the regional order and balance of power. Countries like the United States, China, India, Japan, Australia, and several Southeast Asian nations are actively involved in regional forums and initiatives aimed at promoting security, economic cooperation, and connectivity in the Indo-Pacific.

5. Changes in Japan’s diplomatic posture

Japan's diplomatic posture has evolved in response to various internal and external factors, including shifts in global geopolitics, changes in regional security dynamics, and domestic political developments. While it's essential to note that diplomatic postures can be nuanced and multifaceted, here are some key trends and changes that have been observed in Japan's diplomatic approach in recent years.

• Japan has taken steps to enhance its security posture in response to regional challenges, including maritime disputes and North Korea's nuclear and missile programs. This has involved strengthening defence capabilities, expanding security partnerships, and engaging in more proactive security cooperation with allies like the United States, Australia, and India.
• While maintaining a strong alliance with the United States remains a cornerstone of Japan's security strategy, Tokyo has also pursued a more diversified approach to its alliances and partnerships. Japan has deepened security ties with other like-minded countries in the Indo-Pacific region, such as Australia and India, and has sought to strengthen its engagement with ASEAN nations.
• Japan has actively pursued economic diplomacy as a means to advance its strategic interests and promote regional stability and prosperity. This has included initiatives such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) strategy, which aims to promote infrastructure development, connectivity, and economic integration in the region.
• While Japan maintains a complex relationship with China characterized by historical tensions and territorial disputes, Tokyo has also sought to engage with Beijing on areas of mutual interest, such as trade, economic cooperation, and regional stability. Efforts to manage and mitigate tensions while pursuing cooperation reflect Japan's pragmatic approach to its relations with China.
• Japan has increasingly emphasized its commitment to multilateralism and global leadership on issues such as climate change, sustainable development, and international security. Tokyo has played an active role in various international forums and initiatives, including the United Nations, the G7, and the Quad, demonstrating its willingness to contribute to global governance and address global challenges.

6. India's reaction to change in Japanese policy

India has generally welcomed Japan's evolving diplomatic posture, particularly its increased focus on security cooperation and economic engagement in the Indo-Pacific region. The growing alignment between India and Japan on various strategic and economic issues has led to closer cooperation and coordination between the two countries.

The key aspects of India's reaction to Japan's changing policy

• India and Japan have deepened their security cooperation in recent years, driven by shared concerns about regional stability and maritime security in the Indo-Pacific. Both countries have conducted joint naval exercises, such as the Malabar exercises involving the United States, and have engaged in defence dialogues and exchanges. India has welcomed Japan's proactive security posture and has sought to enhance bilateral defence ties to address common security challenges.
• India is a key member of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, or Quad, along with Japan, the United States, and Australia. The Quad serves as a platform for strategic dialogue and cooperation among like-minded democracies in the Indo-Pacific region. India's participation in the Quad reflects its support for initiatives aimed at promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific and addressing shared security concerns, aligning with Japan's vision for regional security cooperation.
• India has also welcomed Japan's economic initiatives and investments in the region, including its support for infrastructure development, connectivity projects, and the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) strategy. India and Japan have collaborated on various economic initiatives, such as the Asia-Africa Growth Corridor (AAGC) and the Partnership for Quality Infrastructure (PQI), to promote sustainable development and economic integration in the Indo-Pacific.
• India and Japan share strategic interests in maintaining a rules-based international order, promoting freedom of navigation and overflight, and upholding maritime security and stability in the Indo-Pacific. Both countries have emphasized the importance of respecting international law and resolving disputes peacefully, reflecting their commitment to a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

7. The implications of this ‘new’ Japan

The rise of a "new" Japan with a more assertive security posture has several potential implications, both regionally and globally. 

Regional Security

• A stronger Japanese military could deter potential aggression in the East Asia and Indo-Pacific regions, particularly from China. This could contribute to a more stable security environment.
• However, China might view Japan's growing military as a threat, leading to an arms race and heightened tensions in the region.
• Japan's increased security role could lead to a more solidified alliance with the US and other regional partners like India and Australia. This could create a counterweight to China's influence.

Global Power Dynamics

• Japan's rise, alongside India's growing economic and military power, could contribute to a more multipolar world order, with less dominance by the US.
• A more assertive Japan could strengthen the US-Japan alliance and its role in maintaining regional security. However, it could also lead to questions about the future balance within the alliance.

Domestic Politics in Japan

• The shift in security policy is likely to continue to be debated within Japan. There may be public concerns about increased militarization and potential involvement in foreign conflicts.
• The reinterpretation of Japan's pacifist constitution to allow for a more active military role is a contentious issue. It could raise questions about the future of Japan's pacifist identity.

8. The Global Combat Air Programme

The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) is a collaborative effort between three nations United Kingdom, Italy and Japan. Their shared ambition is to develop a next-generation fighter aircraft by 2035. This new aircraft is envisioned to be a sixth-generation stealth fighter.

The key points about GCAP

• The goal is to replace current fighter jets The Eurofighter Typhoon used by the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Italian Air Force and The Mitsubishi F-2 used by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force.
• The new aircraft is expected to be a multirole fighter, meaning it can handle various tasks like air-to-air combat, air-to-ground attacks, and intelligence gathering.
• Each country has its own leading industry partner, BAE Systems (UK), Leonardo (Italy) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (Japan).  These companies will collaborate on the design and development of the new aircraft.
• The GCAP is a significant undertaking in the world of military aviation. It represents a growing trend of international cooperation in developing advanced weapon systems.

9. State of India-Japan Relations

India-Japan relations are generally considered to be strong and moving in a positive direction. 

• Both countries are concerned about China's growing influence and see each other as important partners in a stable Indo-Pacific region.
• There's an agreement on promoting a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific" that emphasizes freedom of navigation, trade, and adherence to international law.
• There's increased collaboration in areas like defence (joint military exercises, information sharing), infrastructure development, and clean energy.
• Leaders from both countries hold frequent summits and meetings, showcasing strong political ties.

Despite the positive outlook, some challenges persist

• While economic ties are growing, trade volumes remain lower compared to India's trade with other partners. Discrepancies exist on issues like e-commerce regulations and regional trade agreements.
• Both India and Japan prioritize their policies based on China to a large extent, potentially hindering broader strategic cooperation.
• Public opinion in Japan can be cautious about military cooperation due to the country's pacifist past.