PACIFIC PERSPECTIVE: THE BUSH/KAIFU SUMMIT : A Japan That Actually May Say <i> No</i> : Healthy at the Core

TOKYO —  How many people would agree to the notion that the relationship between Japan and the United States is healthy? It is--as far as substance is concerned. The problem is one of perception. Indeed, the pent-up frustration from the last decade over trade disputes has risen to an almost critical stage and has been further aggravated by the perception that Japan did not contribute much to the Gulf War.

In retrospect, however, Japanese contributions were not at all insignificant. The $11-billion contribution comes to $400 for every average family. The Cabinet made a historical decision in terms of post-World-War-II politics in authorizing the sending of military aircraft to the Gulf to evacuate refugees. More important, 70% of the Japanese people supported bearing these heavy burdens, according to a recent poll.

Japan failed to convey this positive image to the United States. But the United States failed to understand that these flaws were procedural and do not represent reluctance. As much as Japan must change to meet its global responsibilities, the United Sates must look to Japan without a prejudged image.