February 29

Part 3: Ukraine and the Middle East: The advent of an era of perennial conflict and the future of international security and cooperation (2) The future of international security and cooperation

In the concluding session of the 5th Tokyo Global Dialogue – "The Future of International Security and Cooperation" – the participants were asked what lessons could be drawn from a review of all the discussions in this dialogue. An intense conversation ensued on the roles Japan should play in a world in turmoil and the kinds of partnerships it should build.

While the dysfunction of the United Nations in dealing with perennial international conflicts was pointed out, it was emphasized that the US plays a significant role as a global power despite its domestic political divisions. It was recommended that continuation and strengthening of the US commitment to the Indo-Pacific region be solidified through the Japan-US-ROK, Japan-US-Australia-India and other mini-lateral frameworks formed in recent years in addition to bilateral alliances.

High expectations were voiced regarding Japan’s efforts to promote multilateral cooperation and mini-lateral frameworks, exemplified by the success of last year's G7 Hiroshima Summit and the 2019 G20 Osaka Summit in addition to its maintenance of US engagement through a strong Japan-US partnership. Closer cooperation between Japan and NATO was also anticipated.

The importance of the US as a global power was reaffirmed and, while there is growing concern about the impact on the international community of a Trump reelection in 2024, it was advised that the checks and balances in US politics allowing Congress and the judiciary as well as administrative organs to play an important role not be underestimated. The importance of properly examining and recognizing US involvement in international affairs was shared.

Concern was also expressed about the growing protectionist trend within the international community as a whole, and the importance of mini-lateral and multilateral economic frameworks such as CPTPP and IPEF was emphasized with due consideration for a proper balance between such institutions and economic security.

Finally, humanitarian issues, issues related to human dignity, and the concept of human security in international security were also deemed critical.

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