Japan’s election could lead to shaky relations with U.S.

Japan’s election could lead to shaky relations with U.S.

Kansas City Star: After Sunday’s elections in Japan, America’s relationship with one of its key longtime allies is about to become much more complicated.

Yukio Hatoyama, leader of the victorious Democratic Party of Japan, wants a reassessment of ties with Washington and fewer U.S. troops on Japanese soil.

Notably, he is expected to terminate Japan’s current policy of aiding the refueling of U.S. and allied warships in the Indian Ocean.

In the elections, disgruntled Japanese voters handed over the keys of government to a party with an untried set of leaders and with many positions similar to those of the ousted party.

Hatoyama, like the now-defeated Liberal Democratic Party, will protect the politically powerful agricultural sector. Not much change there.

Looking inward

Two other facets of his program suggest a Japan turning inward: protection of smaller businesses from competition and a shaky commitment to free trade. Hatoyama’s campaign put little emphasis on economic growth. He wants higher taxes to support environmental programs.

His one-word slogan seemed a Japanese version of “motherhood and apple pie.” He pledged yuai, or friendship and love.

What policies actually emerge from these vapors won’t be clear for months, especially in foreign policy. The new government is expected to concentrate initially on domestic issues.

Still, the Obama administration ought to expect Japan to show a more independent streak. U.S. leaders should gently remind the Democratic Party of Japan that it still lives in a dangerous neighborhood. Any friction between Tokyo and Washington could work to the advantage of adversaries such as North Korea.