A Japan-US Security Treaty and Journey of Strengthened Partnership

January 19 marked the 65th anniversary of the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security Between Japan and the United States of America. Over the years, this security partnership has evolved into a cornerstone of peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

From joint military exercises to coordinated diplomatic efforts, the alliance underpinning the treaty has profoundly impacted regional security and global issues. The 1960 revision marked a pivotal shift, making the alliance more equitable and flexible to align with Japan's evolving economic and technological power.

Toward a More Equitable Partnership

The original treaty, signed in 1951, was asymmetrical. While it guaranteed US protection for Japan, it allowed America to unilaterally deploy forces to Japan and make military decisions without Japan's explicit consent.

The imbalance became apparent during the Korean War (1950-1953) when Washington established a large military presence in Japan without consulting the Japanese government. Furthermore, US military forces could also forcefully quell riots within Japan without the permission of the Japanese government. Over time, Japan's increasing economic power and the growing power of the Soviet Union necessitated rethinking the treaty.

With the 1960 revision, Japan could take a more active role in its defense and ensured that Washington and Tokyo would be more equal partners in security decisions. Moreover, the revised treaty required prior consultation before the US could deploy new forces to Japan.

It also paved the way for Japan to participate more actively in regional security efforts. During the Cold War, Tokyo worked alongside Washington to monitor tensions around the Taiwan Strait and contributed to intelligence sharing.

Japan began participating in peacekeeping efforts in the 1970s, primarily through humanitarian aid and non-combat roles in regions like Cambodia and the Middle East. It also gradually increased support for United Nations peacekeeping missions through logistical, financial, and medical assistance in conflict zones.

Security and Sovereignty

However, the 1960 revision was met with significant opposition within Japan. Students and left-wing activists feared the new terms might drag Japan into international conflicts. That year's "Anpo protests" saw thousands of students rallying against the treaty in a period of intense civil unrest.

Prime Minister Nobusuke Kishi, who understood the long-term benefits of the treaty revision, stood firm despite the pressure. Protests intensified, and Kishi faced enormous political turmoil.

*Japanese Prime Minister Nobusuke Kishi (left) during his 1957 visit to Pakistan at the Cotton Mills in Karachi (Wikimedia Commons).*

In his memoirs, he recounted his resolve to ensure the treaty's ratification. As he put it, "I believed that I had to protect the security of the Japanese people and the sovereignty of our country."

While Kishi's government eventually resigned due to the political fallout, the treaty's ratification marked the beginning of a new chapter in Japan-US relations. Japan's growing independence and active role in the alliance became the foundation for future cooperation.

Trust and Shared Values

Since 1960, the US-Japan alliance has flourished, building mutual trust based on democratic values and a commitment to global peace and stability. The partnership plays a crucial role in addressing developing regional security concerns and global threats. These range from North Korean missile tests to the evolving threat of terrorism.

Since the 1990s, the US and Japan have coordinated efforts to counter North Korea's nuclear ambitions. Their initiatives include working toward military deterrence and through diplomatic channels to pressure North Korea into abandoning its nuclear program.

Similarly, Japan's contributions to international peacekeeping efforts also increased. During the Gulf War (1990-1991), for example, Tokyo made substantial financial and humanitarian contributions, signaling a more proactive defense posture.

A Renewed Commitment to Global Peace

In recent years, the significance of the Japan-US alliance has only grown. Recently, former US ambassador to Japan, now US Senator William Hagerty, met with former Japanese PM Suga Yoshihide. Both politicians pledged to do everything in their power to bolster the Japan-US alliance.

*Former* *Prime Minister Fumio Kishida with US Senator Bill Hagerty (left) and Former Ambassador Rahm Emanuel on April 12, 2022 (©Sankei by Yasuhiro Yajima.)*

Outgoing US Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns gave an interview to The Sankei Shimbun on January 17.

During the interview, he highlighted the alliance's importance in addressing international issues, particularly in the face of China's growing assertiveness. Burns emphasized that the US-Japan partnership plays a crucial role in maintaining regional stability, especially in light of China's increasing military pressure in the Taiwan Strait.

These comments from these American and Japanese officials underscore the trust and commitment shared between the US and Japan. As global challenges evolve, the alliance remains a key player in promoting peace and stability, addressing regional security threats, military deterrence, and economic resilience.

Author: Daniel Manning