Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae's foreign policy approach involves strengthening Japan's relationship with the United States while confronting China. Japan has advanced investment plans with the United States, increased investment in the country, and increased its defense spending.

Michael Beckley, an affiliate of the American Enterprise Institute, stated that recent attention toward middle powers results from China-U.S. economic competition exposing their vulnerability. Beckley noted that for much of recorded human history, more than half of humanity lived under the domain of three to five empires. He also stated that small and medium-sized states behaved as middle powers during the Cold War by pledging allegiance to either the American or Soviet camp.

Hal Brands, an international relations scholar, authored an essay titled "Japan Is Becoming the Superpower of the Middle Powers." Brands commended Tokyo's efforts to build up its military strength. Mark Carney issued a statement of support for airstrikes on Iran begun by the Trump administration in late February.

Michael Green, an authority on Asia policy, compared Mark Carney with Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae. Green argued for the merits of Japan's strategy of strengthening its relationship with the United States while confronting the threat posed by China.

Why It Matters

Japan's strategy reflects a trend among middle powers navigating the geopolitical landscape shaped by economic competition between China and the United States. The increased investment in the U.S. and defense spending demonstrates actions taken under this strategy. Commentary from scholars like Michael Beckley and Hal Brands addresses these geopolitical shifts and Japan's positioning within them.