Title: U.S. Urges Japan and South Korea to Overcome Historical Grievances for Regional Security
Subtitle: President Biden hosts historic summit to address security challenges in the Asia-Pacific region
Byline: [Author Name]
Date: [Date]
In a landmark move aimed at strengthening regional security and addressing escalating security threats in the Asia-Pacific, President Biden will hold a stand-alone leader’s summit with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan and President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea at Camp David on Friday. This first-ever trilateral summit between the three allies carries immense significance as it seeks to overcome historical grievances and present a united allied front against mounting security challenges.
For too long, historical grievances between Japan and South Korea have hindered American attempts to establish a cohesive alliance in the region. Lingering resentment over Japan’s colonial occupation and Tokyo’s perceived reluctance to acknowledge its past have undermined efforts to counter the security threats posed by Beijing’s militarization and expansive territorial claims, North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats, and other destabilizing factors in the region.
Amidst a deteriorating security situation in the Asia-Pacific, with China’s aggressive policies and Russia contributing to the rise of illiberalism and economic coercion, a united front between Japan, South Korea, and the United States is paramount. This alliance serves as a bulwark for the rules-based international order and the preservation of important global norms.
By choosing to host the summit at Camp David, President Biden emphasizes the gravity of the moment and underscores the historical significance of this trilateral partnership. Camp David has been the venue for some of the most critical diplomatic events, including the Camp David Accords that led to peace between Israel and Egypt. The location symbolizes the importance of the summit to the three countries involved and the wider world.
Encouragingly, the relationship between Tokyo and Seoul has shown signs of improvement. President Yoon’s decision to mend fences with Japan, despite its unpopularity among many South Koreans, has been met with a positive response from Prime Minister Kishida. The desire to align more closely with the United States as China challenges its power has played a role in this progress. However, these positive developments remain fragile, susceptible to electoral politics and changes in government.
With upcoming elections for all three leaders, it is vital for them to convey unequivocally to their respective electorates and regional players like China that their commitment to collective security is unwavering. The summit must emphasize that amidst domestic political changes, the commitment to a united front against security threats remains unchanged.
Rival powers, such as China and North Korea, have exploited divisions between Japan and South Korea effectively in the past. The lingering memories of Japan’s colonial and wartime history continue to strain relationships, allowing these powers to exploit historical animosities. The summit aims to address this issue and ensure that any threat or attack against one ally is seen as a threat against all. Dispelling concerns of getting dragged into conflicts and clarifying mutual support is crucial to countering Chinese and North Korean tactics.
The one-day summit is anticipated to result in increased joint military exercises and closer coordination among the three allies. However, the trilateral relationship extends beyond defense and encompasses vital issues such as trade, industry, technology, supply chains, and economic security. The summit should produce a comprehensive document reviewing progress in these areas and outline a vision for further cooperation.
Above all, President Biden must use the Camp David summit to convey a paradigm shift in Asia. The security of each country—especially Japan and South Korea—is inextricably linked, and no threat or attack should be ignored. Overcoming historical grievances and forging unity will counter the hands of China and North Korea, ensuring regional stability and security.
The Biden administration has been skillful in supporting the improved relations between South Korea and Japan. This progress must be solidified at Camp David, signaling a steadfast commitment to a united front against shared security threats.
[Author Name] is the Vice President for International Security and Diplomacy at the Asia Society Policy Institute in New York. He served as the Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs under President Barack Obama.
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