Although Japan’s expectations of New Zealand in Asian security matters is modest, New Zealand’s views in multilateral forums means that Japan will encourage New Zealand into regional forums in order to contribute to discussion and rule-making – especially on the topic of engagement with China. Professor Yoichiro Sato looks at the strategic environment within Asia and how Japan thinks New Zealand might fit into this picture. This paper also summarises various security issues in Asia that are perceived as important by the Japanese, such as maritime boundary disputes and naval rivalry with China; energy security; nuclear and missile proliferation; terrorism and natural disaster safety and discusses the perception gaps between Japan and New Zealand on these issues.
Author: Professor Yoichiro Sato