Japanese perspectives toward U.S.-P.R.C. relations since 1971

Abstract

The objective of this thesis is to examine Japanese perspectives toward U.S.-P.R.C. relations since 1971 through the eyes of interest groups which have a significant foreign policy role in Japan. It is vital that Americans understand these perspectives in light of the potential for improved Sino-American relations in the near term. As background, some security aspects of Japan's foreign policy are discussed and U.S.-P.R.C. relations from 1949-present are encapsulated. The foreign policy roles and the attitudes of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, the opposition parties, the central bureaucracy (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of International Trade and Industry), the economic community and public opinion toward Sino-American policy developments and current issues are then analyzed. The thesis concludes that the beginnings of a rapprochement between the U.S. and China has caused a great deal of consternation within these groups and that they all perceive the dangers inherent in a continued warming trend in Sino-American relations.