Former Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga visited Washington D.C on January 9 to attend the state funeral of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter. During this visit, Suga expressed his aspirations for strengthening relations between Japan and the United States. Speaking to reporters, he emphasized the importance of fostering ties between Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and potential future U.S. President Donald Trump. Suga noted it is beneficial to have the ability for the two leaders to communicate freely.
Suga, who attended Carter's funeral as part of Ishiba's delegation, highlighted the significance of the late President's contributions to both the U.S. and global development. He remarked, “Carter’s achievements are great, and the solemnity of the funeral was fitting for his legacy.” Although both Trump and current President Joe Biden were present at the funeral, Suga did not have any direct interactions with either of them.
During his visit, Suga held discussions with Senator Bill Hagerty, who served as the U.S. Ambassador to Japan during Trump's first term. Given the anticipated changes within the U.S. administration, Suga described Hagerty's role as pivotal for the Japan-U.S. relationship. “I want to raise the Japan-U.S. alliance to new heights,” he said. Hagerty reportedly expressed his full support for this endeavor.
The political atmosphere surrounding Suga's visit included discussions about the internal dynamics within Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Questions emerged about Suga’s role as Ishiba's envoy, with political analysts wondering if former Deputy Prime Minister Taro Aso would have been more suitable, considering his established connections with Trump.
This perceived rivalry within LDP leadership reflects broader intra-party contests, especially amid efforts from Ishiba to establish early meetings with the Trump administration. Suga’s presence during this politically charged time raises questions about potential shifts within LDP as members like Aso and Kishida eye greater influence.
The need for dialogue with Trump’s administration becomes increasingly urgent with the new government set to take office on January 20. While addressing this, Suga called for Ishiba to work diligently toward establishing rapport with Trump. He stated, “It is important to build relationships where we can speak freely, and I believe it is achievable through efforts.”
With Japan and the U.S. poised to navigate complex geopolitical challenges, especially concerning security cooperation against the backdrop of China’s rising influence, Suga reiterated his commitment to enhancing safety collaborations. The prospects of future leaders engaging freely across the Pacific suggest pivotal developments for Japan-U.S. relations.
While the political maneuvering continues, Suga appears committed to laying groundwork conducive to collaboration, hoping to align with Trump's administration. With Japan's upcoming leadership decisions and the dynamics within the LDP, all eyes are on how the next chapter will unfurl.