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Evening Talk

Abe Is Changing Japan’s Position in the World - But in Which Direction? A Candid View from Inside Japan

Abe’s foreign policy has been quite controversial inside Japan.

Left-liberals are critical against him, particularly on his defense-security policy. Right-conservatives are generally supportive but some are becoming increasingly frustrated that Abe is making too much compromises. Abe’s image on foreign-security policy has been equally controversial outside Japan.

While acknowledging that there are reasons to be criticized from abroad, the speaker has generally positive views on Abe’s foreign-defense policy. He intends to highlight major points of Abe’s achievements, including his defense policy, revision of the interpretation of the constitution, 70 year post-war statement, agreement on comfort women with Korea, his efforts to find breakthrough with Russia, and even possible steps to improve relations with China. The speaker hopes that animated QA will improve better understanding, if not support, of Abe.

The speaker has much more concern on Abe’s domestic, social and economic policy. He intends to explain his deep anxiety and seek for advices and discussion, because some of the problems which Japan and Abe face now may have resemblance in Singapore and other parts of Asia.

Seminar Room 3-1,
Manasseh Meyer,
Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy,
469C Bukit Timah Road,
Singapore 259772
Mon 13 June 2016
05:15 PM - 06:30 PM

Prof. Kazuhiko Togo

Prof. Kazuhiko Togo

Professor and Director of the Institute for World Affairs, Kyoto Sangyo University; Advisor for External Relations, Shizuoka Prefectural Government

More about speaker

 Dr. Tomoo Kikuchi

Dr. Tomoo Kikuchi

Senior Research Fellow, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy