JAPAN & US - A FRENEMY CONCEPT

 

August 6th stands as a day of solemn remembrance, marking the unforgettable and brutal Hiroshima event in world history. Despite enduring this horrific tragedy, Japan's refusal to sign the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) raises skepticism. While Zen teachings suggest that simultaneous conflicting thoughts are improbable, Japan finds itself in a complex position, simultaneously endorsing TPNW while retaining a belief in the utility of nuclear weapons for times of crisis. This stance prompts questions about Japan's true position.

Furthermore, when examining Japan's relationship with the nation responsible for the bombings, it becomes evident that Japan ranks highest in import status to the United States. This import relationship primarily revolves around industries such as automobiles, optical equipment, and agricultural products. Remarkably, Japan's support for the US, which stood at 85% in 2011, begs analysis. Is this alignment a result of the nation's perceived inadequacy, stemming from historical events such as Emperor Showa's World War II exhortation for civilians to commit suicide instead of surrendering?

Curiously, Japan now holds the distinction of being the fourth-largest military power globally, boasting highly advanced forces across army, navy, and air force domains, equipped with modern weaponry and skilled personnel. A notable historical turning point occurred when the USSR threatened Japan with warfare, prompting the US to intervene with the New Deal policies and support labor rights, unions, the dismantling of monopolies, and educational reforms. This catalyzed Japan's transformation from a military government to a democratic one, marked by electoral voting systems.

The 1950s ushered in an era of burgeoning relations, largely attributed to President Harry S Truman, propelling Japan into a major economic force post-war. Today, Japan claims the fifth-largest economy globally, positioned as the world's leading exporter and an importer of American goods, especially automobiles and electronics. Strikingly, both nations entered into a mutual defense pact against foreign attacks, underscoring the paradoxical juxtaposition of close ties despite past atrocities.

These intricacies have paved the way for subsequent generations to foster strong and complementary bonds with the United States, effectively overshadowing the heinous past crimes.

NOT TO FORGET PEARL HARBOR ATTACK

“Most friendships are a sort of frozen and undeveloping semi-hostility.”
― Iris Murdoch, The Black Prince