• Military

• WMD Menu                           

• Introduction
• Systems
• Facilities
• Agencies
• Operations
• Countries
• Hot Documents
• News
• Reports
• Policy
• Budget
• Congress
• Links

• Intelligence
• Homeland Security
• Space

Tracking Number:  432965

Title:  "President Clinton in Asia: 'Bold' Initiative on Korea; Now to Japan." (960417)

Date:  19960417

Text:
FOREIGN MEDIA REACTION DAILY DIGEST USIA OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND MEDIA REACTION U.S. INFORMATION AGENCY, WASHINGTON, DC 20547 PATRICIA McARDLE, BRANCH CHIEF MEDIA REACTION, (R/MR) TELE. No. (202)619-6511 ANN PINCUS, DIRECTOR

Wednesday, April 17, 1996

PRESIDENT CLINTON IN ASIA: 'BOLD' INITIATIVE ON KOREA; NOW TO JAPAN

As President Clinton finished his meetings in South Korea and moved on to his state visit to Japan, analysts agreed that security rather than trade was now the foremost topic on the agenda for U.S. policy toward Asia, and gave the administration nearly unanimous high marks on the trip so far.

Editorialists praised the proposal for four-way talks on the Koreas as a graceful way to facilitate a "soft landing" for North Korea, though there was predictable concern about supplying and funding the necessary "parachutes." Speculation abounded on how Pyongyang would respond, though commentators tended to discount the immediate, sharp brushoff from North Korea as only an opening move. Seoul's independent Dong-A Ilbo called the proposed talks the only apparent way to resolve differences and "really bring the North to dialogue," but regretted that "we still need the United States and China to solve our problems." In Moscow, reformist Segodnya pointed out that quadripartite talks would leave Russia, which had earlier proposed an international conference on the Koreas, "off side." Pundits--mostly in Asia and Europe but also from as far afield as Muscat and Pretoria--tried to discern Pyongyang's motives, with most concluding only that the financially ailing and isolated regime sought to sustain itself in power at all costs. Left-of-center Berliner Zeitung maintained that Washington's desire "to avoid a new murderous war in Korea at almost any price makes them extortionable," and added that even a "peaceful" invasion by North Korean multitudes after a collapse of the Pyongyang regime could prove disastrous for the South and "more expensive for Washington than reserved support of Kim Jong-il's game."

Observers expected Mr. Clinton's meetings today in Japan to underscore the U.S. commitment to peace and stability in Asia. Commentators in Tokyo fretted about how the Japanese public would accept its defense burden, especially if the present concentration of U.S. forces and installations in Okinawa is to be dispersed. A TV journalist wondered if U.S.-Japan military relations would grow to resemble U.S.-NATO ties. Writers elsewhere in Asia and in Europe continued to maintain that U.S.-Japan security ties and the U.S. military presence as a "balancing power" were vital to the region's security, especially in view of China's burgeoning growth and might. London's independent Financial Times suggested China might "feel isolated by the fresh U.S.-Japan rapprochement this week." With other Asian dailies, the independent Jakarta Post called the U.S. presence "not a temporary phenomenon but a fundamental part of the strategic development of the Asia-Pacific." A British paper averred, "Even if everything changes after the (U.S.) presidential election, the perception at the very least that American forces are there to stay is vital to stability." But Beijing's official media took a different tack, criticizing U.S. politicians for invoking the "China threat" to strengthen U.S.-Japan military ties and expand the U.S. military presence in Asia. Many analysts attributed the shift in emphasis toward security issues to electioneering. French writers, recalling trade tensions that had clouded previous summits, contended that trade diplomacy has apparently paid off for Washington, but that now "it will have to co-exist better with U.S. strategic interests in Asia."

This report is based on 105 commentaries from 23 countries, April 12-17.

EDITOR: Rose Sue Berstein

EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC

SOUTH KOREA: "Korea, An International Issue"

Independent Dong-A Ilbo stated (4/17), "Certainly the Kim-Clinton summit will help ease tensions on this peninsula, and it's important to note that South Korea and the United States proposed the 'Four-Party Talks' together. Given the pattern of Northern behavior, multinational talks like these seem to be the only way to resolve differences and really bring the North to dialogue. It's regrettable that we still need the United States and China to solve our problems."

"North Korea (And Russia) Should Join Four-Party Talks"

Conservative Chosun Ilbo noted (4/17), "The summit clearly showed that the United States and Korea are solidly united in their policies toward North Korea. What should follow now is that North Korea should accept the proposed talks and engage in dialogue. The four-party format saves face for the North, and the North should take heed that the whole point of the talks is to help its survival. When the talks take place, it will become clear to the North that Seoul and Washington both want the North to have a 'soft-landing.' And with China standing by the North, Pyongyang has nothing to worry about. The North should see that there can't be any better guarantee than four-party talks for the North's security. We are concerned that Russia has been left out. There has to be a way to engage Russia in this multinational plan."

"Technical Blocks To U.S.-North Korea Ties Gone"

Dong-A Ilbo commented (4/16), "The summit says that from now on, U.S.-North Korea dialogue and Korean security issues will be dealt with separately. This change must be reviewed carefully because it has a downside, which is the United States could now decide independently how fast it wants to move on improving relations with the North. At any event, it is highly possible that U.S.-North Korea relations will improve fast. How skillfully Korea will handle that situation is yet to be seen. That may well be a challenge for Seoul."

"U.S. Now Has Greater Room for Handling North Korea"

Pro-business Joong-Ang Ilbo asserted (4/16), "The United States, from now on, is going to have full control over how fast it wants to improve U.S.-North Korea relations. South Korea, in the meantime, will take the rein over security/peace negotiations with Pyongyang.... The summit is critical in 'putting a final nail' on Northern schemes to invalidate the armistice. The Declaration is going to have a positive impact on the way the Korean government handles its Northern policy. With the United States and Japan moving fast, the South Korea government can no longer afford to sit aside."

"South Korea No Longer Blocks Better U.S.-North Korea Ties"

Anti-establishment Hankyoreh Shinmun stated (4/16), "That the United States won't conduct peace negotiations while continuing talks with North Korea is the central part of the Cheju Declaration. That implies a significant departure from what Korea has been saying. Washington...will now have more maneuvering room in handling Northern issues.... The Cheju Declaration is going to...influence Japan's policy toward the North as well. It may well be that South Korea will benefit if North Korea engages in more talks with Washington and Tokyo."

JAPAN: "Summit Coverage"

TV Anchorman Chikushi of private TBS's highly-rated "News 23" (4/16) commented, "If mainland Japanese do not have support and sympathy for the U.S.-Japan security arrangement and the U.S. military presence (in Japan), they will not accept--positively or willingly--the 'security burden', some of which will be moved from Okinawa. Questions remain over how long the large U.S military presence will continue in Japan in the post-Cold War period. In view of a rise of nationalism in Japan, it is certain that the maintenance of a huge U.S. military force in Japan will become increasingly difficult."

"Electioneering And Reaffirming Security Ties"

Private TV Asahi's "News Station 10" said (4/16), "President Clinton is hoping for a successful summit with Hashimoto by reaffirming closer and stronger political and security ties with Japan. The president is trying to use the fruits of his talks with the prime minister to create a 'plus factor' for his presidential election this fall. PM Hashimoto is also trying to make the summit a success, through the reaffirmation of the significance of U.S.-Japan security ties, in order to show his strong political leadership.

"A review of U.S.-Japan defense cooperation guidelines means a sharp increase in Japan's security responsibility to cope with contingencies in the Far East. Through such defense cooperation, Japan may jump out of its constitutional restrictions. But the government has apparently refrained from explaining Japan's new security role to the nation in an explicit manner.... Japan is acting as if it will become a 'policeman of the world' along with the United States."

"Ease Tensions Through Four-Way Peace Talks"

Liberal Tokyo Shimbun remarked (4/17), "Neighboring countries, including Japan, have expressed all-out support for the joint U.S. and South Korean proposal. Both China and Russia are said to support the proposal also. The question is how will North Korea react to the idea.... If the North misses this opportunity, it will more likely be left isolated further from the international community. Japan, the United States and South Korea as well as China should work on the North in a patient manner to accept the proposed four-nation peace talks."

"New Era for U.S.-Japan Security Ties"

Top-circulation, moderate Yomiuri opined (4/16), "The United States and Japan have agreed to begin joint study...of bilateral defense cooperation guidelines. (They) also signed the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA).... Revision of the guidelines and signing the ACSA are concrete steps to reinforce the 'reaffirmation of the U.S.-Japan security arrangement.'... The two nations are also expected to pledge the launch of another joint study to determine conditions under which U.S. troops could use...Japanese...facilities in case of emergency. We welcome these moves as a way to bind the two nations closer in security cooperation and, at the same time, to demonstrate at home and abroad their mutual respect for their relationship.... The two nations should continue their efforts to enhance such bilateral security cooperation. Such joint efforts will send a clear message to the rest of the world that the two nations are contributing in unison to the security and prosperity of not only this country and the Asia-Pacific region in the post-Cold War era but also the peace and stability of the entire world."

"Good News With Some Built-In 'Buts'"

Anchorman Chikushi opined on TBS's "News 23" (4/15), "Although the planned return of Futenma Airfield is welcome news, the conclusion of the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) and the agreement on joint study on possible revision of U.S.-Japan defense cooperation guidelines will likely result in the further strengthening of bilateral military cooperation. This is a 'big plus' for the United States and its global strategy.... Even if 11 U.S. military facilities on Okinawa are to be returned, the functions of the U.S. military will be maintained intact.... If this had taken place during the Cold War period, it would have become a serious issue of discussion in the national Diet.... The U.S. first concluded ACSA with NATO. It seems that U.S.-Japan military relations are becoming like U.S.-NATO ties."

"Futenma And Other Bases To Be Returned, But..."

Private TV Asahi's "News Station" commentator Takanarita said (4/15), "The (planned) return of Futenma Airfield will be a very expensive 'shopping item' because Japan concluded ACSA and also agreed to launch joint study on the revision of present defense cooperation guidelines. This is because the United States believes the present defense guidelines are not sufficient to cope with contingencies in the Far East.... Japan may jump out of constitutional restrictions through further defense cooperation with the United States."

"Stabilize U.S.-Japan Security Ties"

Yomiuri opined (4/14), "It is epoch-making that the United States and Japan agreed on the return of Futenma Airfield...to local landowners over the next five to seven years. The United States and Japan have also agreed to launch a joint study on letting U.S. forces in Japan use Japanese commercial airports and Self-Defense Forces bases in case of emergency. We welcome both agreements as extremely important political decisions made to further stabilize and firmly maintain the U.S.-Japan security system. Overriding opposition from the U.S. military, Washington agreed to return the Futenma base because it wanted to do what it could to mitigate the emotions of the Okinawan people. This was an unavoidable decision to smoothly reaffirm the U.S.-Japan security setup."

"Accord On The Return Of Futenma Base Welcomed"

Business-oriented Nihon Keizai remarked (4/14), "The U.S.-Japan security system is indispensable for stability in Japan and the Asia and Pacific region, and it is necessary to get public support for and understanding of this system by reducing the excessive 'security burden' imposed on Okinawa.... The U.S.-Japan summit should not end up a mere 'Okinawa summit.' Although it is not proper to overemphasize the murkiness of the Asia and Pacific region, unbridled optimism is not warranted either. The summit will be a venue where the two leaders will deliver to the world messages of what they can do to maintain peace and security in the region."

"What Made U.S. And Japan Agree On Futenma's Return?"

Liberal Asahi opined (4/14), "The United States will lose almost nothing...because it is certain that the return of Futenma Airfield will not adversely affect the capabilities and readiness of the U.S. military...and that the United States may impose new 'security pressure' on Japan in return for its compromise on Futenma.... "In exchange for the return of Futenma, the government should not 'open the floodgate' to spur the unprincipled strengthening of the security arrangement. Further strengthening of the U.S.-Japan Security Treaty, which will lead to the permanent presence of U.S. military bases in Japan, will again trample on the wishes of the Okinawan people."

"U.S. Understanding Of Okinawans Appreciated"

Conservative Sankei said (4/12), "Having secured the U.S. compromise, Prime Minister Hashimoto must demonstrate his leadership role in settling the Okinawa base issue. The prime minister must also explain to the Okinawans and mainland Japanese the importance of maintaining the remaining bases on Okinawa and finding alternate bases for the U.S. military in mainland Japan. Japan must react positively to the understanding the United States showed over the return of Futenma Airfield."

AUSTRALIA: "Pacific's Odd Couple End Bickering"

The foreign editor for the national, conservative Australian opined (4/17), "The centerpiece of (President Clinton's Japan) visit will be a joint declaration on security. This is a highly important development. For the three years of his presidency, Clinton has essentially been running a public campaign against Japan. It is not surprising that support for the U.S.-Japan security treaty has reached an all-time low, in both Japan and the United States.... So this presidential trip has been designed as a major reaffirmation of the alliance. The U.S. Defense and State departments had been sending wake-up calls to the White House for a couple of years over what was happening to the U.S.-Japan relationship and to the U.S.'s position in the region generally."

"Plan To Trim Bases Smooths Clinton's Path"

The liberal Sydney Morning Herald's Tokyo correspondent wrote (4/16), "While cutting the size of the U.S. bases has been welcomed in Okinawa...the announcement has also been treated with caution. A similar promise to return the military port of Naha to Okinawa, made several years ago, has not been kept.... Trade will also be a big issue at the leaders' talks, although both sides play down the possibility of any disputes."

"Clinton Claims Japan Strategy Win"

The Washington correspondent for the national, business-oriented Australian Financial Review reported (4/15), "After three years of strong-arm trade threats against Tokyo, President Clinton has declared his Japan policy a success and given it credit for boosting U.S. exports ranging from cars to apples. While tailored for his 1996 reelection drive, Mr. Clinton's declaration of success means his visit to Tokyo this week will be largely stripped of the trade friction that has grated on U.S.-Japan relations over the past three years and instead will be devoted to security issues....

Mr. Clinton's new pitch on trade with Japan was symbolized by his move on Friday to shift his chief trade negotiator, Mickey Kantor, to replace U.S. Commerce Secretary Ron Brown."

"Bold Declaration Obscures Real Problems"

The Australian Financial Review's Tokyo correspondent observed (4/15), "Japan and the United States will this week declare the beginning of a new era of cooperation in security and economic policy.... "But a closer look...reveals a less rosy picture than the one painted in the lead-up to this week's summit, making the declaration of a new era sound premature.... In a seminal speech to the Foreign Correspondents Club of Japan last month, Japan's most senior trade bureaucrat, Yoshihiro Sakamoto, declared the death of bilateralism, a declaration greeted with contempt by U.S. commentators."

CHINA: "U.S. Seeks Stronger Security Cooperation With Japan"

Washington correspondent Gad Fengyi wrote in intellectually-oriented Guangming Daily (4/17), "Strengthening bilateral military cooperation is the core of Clinton's visit to Japan.... (The) 'China threat' theory has become an essential premise for those Washington politicians who favor strengthening the U.S.-Japan military alliance and call for the expansion of the U.S. military presence in Asia.

"Those who oppose the global trend of peace and development will only eat their own bitter fruit. (We hope) Washington can demonstrate sufficient common sense and sober-mindedness to completely abandon its Cold War thinking.... In the face of...such sinister schemes, the peace-loving people of the world have reason to maintain their vigilance."

"Major Diplomatic Action In Election Year"

Washington correspondent Zhou Xisheng wrote in Shanghai's official, Communist Party Liberation Daily (4/16), "Political analysts think that Clinton's intention in making this overseas trip...is to demonstrate his achievements in foreign policy and trade policy, to pacify U.S. allies and trade partners, and to demonstrate the strength of U.S. support for the reform process in Russia."

HONG KONG: "Time To Start Talking" The leading independent English-language South China Morning Post held (4/17), "North Korea would much rather bypass Seoul and deal solely with Washington, as it did in concluding the 1994 accord on ending its nuclear weapons program. So it is not surprising its initial response is as hostile as it was to a similar initiative for six-way talks, also including Japan and Russia, put forward by the Bush administration in 1991. But Pyongyang has fallen on hard times since then, with an economic collapse accelerated by China and Russia's refusal to supply oil or grain on concessionary terms, and the devastation caused by last year's floods. Given its present plight, North Korea will find it more difficult to sustain for long its rejection of yesterday's proposal. This would cut it off from many sources of outside aid."

"President Clinton Will Discuss Asia Pacific's Defense"

Center-right Sing Tao Daily News (4/16) held, "The significant meaning of President Clinton's trip (to Japan, South Korea and Russia) is to reassure Asian countries that the United States will continue its obligations regarding the security and defense of the Asia Pacific region."

"Cool Heads Required To Quell Regional Fears"

The independent English-language Hongkong Standard (4/16) opined, "The U.S. president is no miracle-worker. No one expects that his visit will usher in a new era of U.S.-Japanese cooperation. But if the two leaders manage to solve some of the wide-ranging problems between the two countries, the summit will be deemed a success."

INDONESIA: "Foreign Policy Also Defines Clinton Administration"

Leading independent Kompas observed (4/17), "President Clinton was elected...(on) his platform of economic and trade reform. However, on his visit to...South Korea and Japan, Clinton doesn't carry the banner of trade, but of defense.... Although he initially pledged a focus on economic issues, Clinton now believes Americans will not be secure and prosperous unless they participate in foreign affairs, assume international leadership and cooperate with the UN as well as with allies.

"This contrasts with the views of the Republican Party, which is increasingly dominated by isolationists who want to reduce foreign involvement and spending.... Clinton's statements, foreign policy and Asia-Pacific visit inspire our belief that the United States under Clinton will continue to be a superpower with a role in Asia as well as in worldwide conflicts. Foreign policy will continue to be a pillar of the administration."

"U.S. Military Presence In Japan, Worry Over China"

Kompas (4/16) said, "It is ironic that President Clinton plans to strengthen the U.S. military presence in Japan at a time of growing anti-American sentiment.... Observers believe both the United States and Japan worry about China's alarming military power.... In the face of China's military threat, neighboring countries believe it important to find a balancing power. The United States is frequently mentioned as the most capable.... We believe that, to some extent, U.S.-Japan relations are sensitive.... Therefore, defense cooperation is important to minimize possible conflicts in economic and trade affairs."

"Asia-Pacific Needs U.S. Presence"

Jusuf Wanandi opined in the leading, independent and critical English-language Jakarta Post (4/16), "The U.S. presence in the Asia-Pacific has been taken for granted and people expected it to always continue.... What would happen if the Korean peninsula reunited in a relatively peaceful way? Would U.S. public opinion still support the U.S. presence in East Asia? What if the cost was minimal due to increased burden-sharing by Japan and other East Asian countries?... The United States is the only trusted great power because it is considered a benign power.... The U.S. presence is vital to the maintenance of a minimum balance of power in the region. In that sense, the U.S...presence is not a temporary phenomenon but a fundamental part of the strategic development of the Asia-Pacific.... To keep the U.S. military presence in East Asia, some efforts have to be made by East Asia to show America that it is in its own best interest to be in the region. Great burden-sharing is one such important effort. Bilateral alliances, the U.S.-Japan relationship in particular, are vital to burden-sharing."

MALAYSIA: "President Clinton In Northeast Asia"

Government-influenced Chinese-language Nanyang Siang Pau held (4/16), "Washington's aim in strengthening the U.S.-Japan defense relationship is to proclaim its intention of remaining a military power in Asia to safeguard its huge strategic and economic interest.... If there is any change in the U.S.-Japan Security Agreement, the equilibrium in the Asia-Pacific region among the United States, China, Japan and Russia will be disrupted. A new landscape of balanced power and interest will have to be established. This could be a complex and long process during which conflicts might occur. President Clinton's current visit to East Asia has far-reaching repercussions. It must not be viewed lightly."

"Clinton's Visit To Korea, Japan And Russia Is Important"

Government-influenced Chinese-language daily Sin Chew Jit Poh commented (4/16), "The greatest goal of President Clinton's current visit is to ease the enmity between the U.S. and Japan generated from their bilateral trade disputes so as to re-establish a foundation of mutual interest and sense of value. This will pave the way to the establishment of a new defense line of containment in the Western Pacific. However, as a prerequisite the United States must have the consensus of its allies and friends in the Asia-Pacific region. It is timely that after Clinton's trip the nations in the region re-assess their role and take a position in the face of the new U.S.-China-Japan tripartite relations."

SINGAPORE: "Historic Chance For Two Koreas"

The pro-government Business Times editorialized (4/17), "U.S. President Bill Clinton's proposal for four-party talks on the future of the Korean peninsula is partly a recognition of...President Kim Young-sam's greatly strengthened position as a result of last week's election.... It is to be hoped that neither North Korea nor China...will delay in responding to the invitation to four-way talks.... For now...it is the two Koreas that must agree on the modalities of permanent peace, with the United States and China lending a helping hand. Only when peace terms have been agreed can the reunification talks hope to make any real progress. Both Koreas should look forward to a historic culmination. The gains are obvious for an impoverished and economically mismanaged North, reeling from famine and floods. The South, too, hopes to benefit from additional natural resources and manpower as it undertakes ambitious deregulation, curbs the power of the chaebols, and globalizes its economy in readiness to join the OECD. There is far too much at stake for further dilatoriness: the two Koreas have to make up for 43 lost years."

"Clinton's Asia Policy Takes Shape"

Pro-government, Chinese-language Lianhe Zaobao held (4/17), "Although President Clinton's visit to South Korea, Japan and Russia is regarded as a part of his election campaign, it can be taken as a proof that his Asia policy has eventually taken shape after three years in office.... For instance, he managed to diffuse the crisis with North Korea. Despite the strained relations with China, the White House still vetoed a Congressional resolution that could have worsened U.S.-China relations. America's trade friction with Japan was also eased through negotiation. Hence, Asian countries hope President Clinton's policy toward Asia will become more mature.... The age in which the whole region can be dominated by one country or by bilateral arrangement is over. The only effective way to ensure economic progress, peace and stability in Asia is to hold wider consultation and maintain close relations with countries and groupings, including ASEAN, in the region."

THAILAND: "Peace In Korean Peninsula"

Elite Siam Post's Thitichai Thanadeerojkun commented (4/17), "The joint declaration called for a four-party negotiation...to settle the Korean peninsula conflict and promote permanent peace in the region.... China is likely to respond positively to the call.... Analysts believe that although North Korea first reacted disdainfully to the proposal, which is the norm for a typical hardline Communist state, it will eventually soften its stance and heed the call."

"China Watching Carefully"

Thitichai Thanadeerojkun held in the Siam Post (4/16), "China is keeping a watchful eye on President Clinton's trip to South Korea and Japan...because it focuses more on bilateral security than on bilateral trade relations with the two nations. Chinese experts view the trip as a U.S. attempt to perpetuate its 'China containment' policy.... The meeting between President Clinton and...Prime Minister Hashimoto is considered important since it will give a glimpse of future U.S. security arrangements in this region.... Japan is likely to gradually increase its military role to fill the vacuum left by the United States."

EUROPE

BRITAIN: "Pacific Needs Pax Americana"

The conservative Daily Telegraph opined (4/17), "As with Germany in Europe, Japan cannot be trusted as a military power on its own. Given their formidable economic strength, both countries could do more to help the United States on the defense front, a step which would also buttress their campaigns to become permanent members of the UN Security Council. For the foreseeable future, however, Pax Americana will continue to hold the key to peace, whether in Asia or in Europe."

"Diplomatic Dancers May Charm Pyongyang"

Korea correspondent Robert Guest commented in the Daily Telegraph (4/17), "Similar diplomatic contortions (to the tactics used in 1994 over nuclear issues) might work now. U.S. diplomatic recognition and a lifting of the trade embargo might give North Korea's rulers the confidence to approach the negotiating table without constantly wondering whether their country will collapse while they are away. This might seem like rewarding the North for behaving badly. But the price of failing to engage North Korea will probably be having to pick up the pieces after it disintegrates, perhaps violently. Both America and South Korea say they would prefer a 'soft landing' for the North. If so, they had better start providing the parachutes."

"Clinton In Japan"

The conservative Times opined (4/16), "The Japanese have cautiously begun to talk about becoming a 'normal country' and Mr. Clinton will be tempted to give this debate a nudge forward. But in the aftermath of the Okinawa rape, he would be unwise to force the pace. For now, Asian security will best be served by a seamless diplomatic repair job to this vital alliance."

"Slowing The Asian Arms Race"

Tokyo correspondent Joanna Pitman held in the Times (4/16), "Mr Clinton has to tread with great delicacy in Tokyo. Given the electoral pressures and Japan's chilly welcome on the one hand, and the Korean war alert with China on the other, he must assure the Asian nations that the Pentagon's planned reduction to 100,000 troops in the region is not a prelude to withdrawal. Even if everything changes after the presidential election, the perception at very least that American forces are there to stay is vital to stability....

"As always, China dominates the strategic picture. Fewer challenges loom larger than that of building a relationship of stability and equality between China and the rest of the region. To this end, a responsible long-term attitude to Asian security by the United States is crucial. "Pulling out of Asia may sound tempting to...budget-cutters with only a dim and distant idea of the local dynamics; but if America does withdraw, or even hints that it might, we are all likely to be sorry."

GERMANY: "Dicey Times For Asian Security"

National radio station Deutschlandfunk of Cologne said (4/17), "Compared to Europe after the end of the Cold War, East Asia is a powerkeg waiting for a light. The Americans have recognized this, albeit belatedly. There is a desperate need to adjust the U.S.-Japanese security relationship in light of the end of the Cold War."

"Clinton's Initiative"

Right-of-center Die Welt of Berlin remarked (4/17), "President Clinton's proposal for four-power talks...is a bold initiative to defuse a crisis."

"Korean Coups"

Left-of-center Frankfurter Rundschau said (4/17), "(With his proposal) Clinton achieved nothing more than a second-class election-campaign coup.... If there is to be peace on the Korean peninsular it is likely to come only through reunification, something that both North and South Korea do not want at this time, for very different reasons."

"A Signal From The United States"

Martin Winter wrote in Frankfurter Rundschau (4/16), "U.S. policy toward Asia, which was for a long time reduced to the conclusion of economic and trade agreements with the competitors in Japan and China, has now been confronted with the complicated security policy realities in this region.... If the United States wants to continue to play a stabilizing role...then it must supplement the free trade concept with a security policy concept.

"This is the purpose of Clinton's visit to Japan and South Korea. The new agreement on military cooperation between Washington and Tokyo offers a first indication. From a superficial point of view, the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Okinawa is no real withdrawal. At closer inspection, it serves to reassure the angered population.... De facto the forces will stay in Asia. The signal is very clear. The United States will not reduce its engagement in Asia. In some capitals this will cause relief and in...others it will result in thinking. But it is not enough to supplement economic policy with military strength. The whole development will make sense only if the United States and the Asian countries work out a concept for mutual security."

"There Is No Way Around Pyongyang"

Wolfgang Georgi wrote in left-of-center Berliner Zeitung (4/16), "At the beginning of his trip to Asia, President Clinton assured the South Koreans that the United States would protect them. But in order to put peace on the Korean peninsula on a halfway sound foundation, more is necessary: an arrangement with the possible aggressor.... The fact that the Americans want to avoid a new murderous war in Korea at almost any price makes them extortionable. With the 'nuclear threat,' North Korea's late dictator Kim Il-sung forced the United States to restructure the energy system of the battered regime. His son Kim Jong-il continues to play this card. And he is successful, too, which is demonstrated by the increase in humanitarian U.S. assistance to North Korea....

"U.S. military experts consider it impossible that Pyongyang's forces will overrun the forces of the South, but even the CIA is unable to predict what a regime is able to do that is about to collapse. And even a 'peaceful' invasion of hundreds of thousands if not millions of North Koreans after a collapse of the regime in Pyongyang would be a disaster for the South which would be more expensive for Washington than reserved support of Kim Jong-il's game."

"Challenge For Clinton"

Fritz Wirth remarked in Die Welt of Berlin (4/15), "The need for a stabilizing U.S. role in the Pacific region has hardly been greater than today. For this reason it is even more surprising and irritating that the United States announced the dissolution of its base in Okinawa. It has nothing to do with strategic calculations but with the growing unpopularity of U.S. forces on Okinawa.... Nevertheless, there is no doubt that this is the most important trip of his term.... The Pacific Basin is the terrain of new global policy and strategic power structures. That an increasing number of Asian nations is turning to Beijing for security policy and opportunistic reasons emphasizes the urgent need of a strengthened security policy alliance between the United States and Japan. This is the yardstick against which the success of President Clinton's trip should be measured."

FRANCE: "Power And Vision"

Marc Ullmann said on RTL radio (4/17), "Bill Clinton's trip has been made-to-measure to give the impression of power and vision, as suits the world's number-one power."

"Trade Diplomacy, Strategic Interests Must Co-Exist"

Influential Le Monde's Washington correspondent Laurent Zecchini held (4/17), "By traveling to South Korea and Japan in order to reaffirm U.S. solidarity, Mr. Clinton is trying to correct what appeared like a drift in U.S. foreign policy: Trade diplomacy' has shown its limits and, in the future, it will have to co-exist better with U.S. strategic interests in Asia."

"Strategy Prevails"

Influential Liberation's Washington correspondent Patrick Sabatier said (4/17), "In the post-Cold War world, as seen from the White House, the economy prevailed over strategy and Japan had become the number-one enemy. In 1995, the risk of a trade war between the United States and Japan was real. But a series of crises--the North Korean nuclear question, Chinese threats against Taiwan and the North Korean provocations in the DMZ---have made Clinton put his watch back onto Asia time. While...Mickey Kantor used to be center-stage, this time around, it was Defense Secretary Perry who prepared the ground in Tokyo."

"Clear Skies"

Financial La Tribune's Tokyo correspondent Xavier Lambert said (4/17), "Clear skies, some clouds but no rain...is the forecast for U.S.-Japanese trade relations. This lull is accounted for by the recent tensions between China and Taiwan, as well as those between the two Koreas, which have forced Tokyo and Washington to strengthen security ties across the Pacific. Also, for domestic political reasons, the Japanese prime minister and the U.S. president have an interest in displaying mutual confidence. Last and above allis the reduction of the U.S. trade deficit and the new aggressiveness of the Japanese administration." "Security Before Trade"

Catherine Chatignoux wrote in economic Les Echos (4/16), "Everything is ready for Bill Clinton's official visit to Tokyo to be successful and for the Clinton-Hashimoto summit to be a historic meeting.... The Americans are so eager to make it a success that they have set aside everything that might upset the Japanese.... It is important for Washington to strengthen its security ties with Japan because the U.S. economy is increasingly dependent on Asia."

"Reaffirm Strategic Role Of The U.S."

Conservative Le Figaro's Washington correspondent Stephane Marchand wrote (4/15), "Over the past three years, Bill Clinton traveled to Asia mainly in order to promote U.S. exports. This time, he will travel to Korea and Japan in order to reaffirm the strategic role of the United States in the West of the Pacific."

ITALY: "Only One Korea?"

Leftist, influential La Repubblica (4/16) held, "Washington has two fears: One is that on the eve of its 'implosion,' Pyongyang will be tempted to play the suicide card of an invasion, while the other is that the political void left by the death of the regime will be filled by someone else, perhaps China. For this reason, instead of associating itself to South Korean propaganda, the United States limited itself to a very soft protest and relaunched the diplomatic game.... Reunification would have an important impact on Asia's geopolitical equilibrium. It would become an important military and economic entity between China, Japan and Russia, playing a cushioning role between the two historical enemies of the eastern theater, which the United States would not dislike at all."

"U.S. Still On Top"

Ennio Caretto, traveling with the White House press corps, wrote from Cheju in centrist, top-circulation Corriere della Sera (4/16), "Twenty years after the defeat in Vietnam, America remains the pillar of Asian stability. But it will not be easy for the American president to maintain the American peace in the Far East, in part owing to Beijing's unknown attitude."

"Clinton's World Tour"

Vittorio Zucconi commented from Washington in centrist La Stampa (4/14), "Clinton will travel five thousand kilometers a day to show the world that America is still important, and to show America that he, Clinton, is important and deserves being re-elected president in November.... However, it would be a serious mistake to set aside Clinton's tour as pure scenery. The sudden revival of tension between the two Chinas and the two Koreas has shown that the post-Cold War process is still delicate and uncertain in Asia.... The visit to Moscow...is equally delicate and indispensable so as not to lose definitively the thread of relations with the new Russia which will emerge from today's volcano."

RUSSIA: "Seoul's Plan: Moscow 'Off Side'"

Sergei Gubin reported in reformist Segodnya (4/17), "Many observers have already pointed out that were Seoul's proposal of quadripartite talks accepted, Moscow with its idea of an international conference would actually find itself 'off side.'... From yesterday's reaction of the U.S. and South Korean presidents, they prefer the quadripartite formula." "Asia-Pacific Region: Soft Spot In U.S. Foreign Policy"

Andrei Smirnov remarked in reformist, business-oriented Kommersant Daily (4/16), "Clinton, evidently, will have to provide proof of U.S. loyalty to association with South Korea and take a tougher stand on North Korea. Overall, the Asia-Pacific region has revealed soft spots in Clinton's foreign policy. Apart from a crisis in the Korean Peninsula and complications with China, there are now political frictions even with Tokyo, which has until recently given Washington no trouble except in trade."

"Hurried Decisions On U.S. Bases"

Vasily Golovin reported from Tokyo for reformist Segodnya (4/16), "By all accounts, decisions on U.S. military bases in Okinawa were made in a hurry, timed for President Bill Clinton's visit to Japan. Tokyo and Washington, however, believe that the agreements signed will help head off the protest movement in Okinawa."

BELGIUM: "President Clinton Plays Tightrope Walker In Korea And Japan"

Foreign editor Pierre Lefevre wrote (4/17) in independent Le Soir, "The proposal made in Cheju reconciles and hides at the same time a difference of approach between Washington and Seoul. The South Koreans seem less eager than the Americans to start negotiations likely to help a regime which they consider to be on the verge of collapse.... Washington, on the other hand, seems less inclined to leave a regime plunged in a desperate situation without a leg to stand on....

"Some people also worry in Seoul about the overture...in Japan in favor of increased military cooperation with the United States..... The idea that Japan might play a role with the United States in the prevention or the solution of regional conflicts is probably making the entire region shiver, particularly Korea where the souvenir of the imperial army's occupation remains extremely vivid. This means that both in Tokyo and in Korea, Bill Clinton will have to tread on thin ice."

"Clinton Redefines A Severely Tested Alliance In Tokyo"

Philippe Paquet wrote in conservative Catholic La Libre Belgique (4/16), "Bill Clinton must regret the budget fight that forced him to postpone the official visit he was scheduled to make to Tokyo last November.... His tour is, in fact, hampered by differences that have continued to increase since then, fanned by Okinawan authorities tired of hosting three-fourths of U.S. troops in Japan.... While they guarantee the rescue of the Japanese-American summit...concessions by Washington will not satisfy those in Okinawa who demand the closing of all bases by 2015.... In order to remind people that 'freedom has a price,' Bill Clinton purposefully stopped in Seoul on his way to Tokyo. It is, indeed, the threat of a war between the two Koreas that justifies, to a large extent, the U.S. deployment in Japan, and Secretary of Defense William Perry said Monday that he envisaged a reduction of those troop levels only in the event of a peaceful reunification in the peninsula."

BULGARIA: "Clinton Trying To Perform Nixon's Role"

Center-left Kontinent observed (4/17), "Clinton's visit to South Korea is just the beginning of a trip which in fact skips the main goal--China.... It turns out that Washington's Korean problem is actually Chinese.... Washington got concerned with Beijing's open ambitions to occupy the position of the second world power which became vacant after the break-up of the former Soviet Union. "In 1972 Richard Nixon predetermined two decades ahead the balance of the world powers, by paying a surprising visit to Communist China and reaching with it an agreement against the Soviet hegemony. Nowadays Clinton is trying to repeat Nixon's 'shock,' yet, on the opposite point of view and in quite more complicated conditions. However, his success is questionable."

CANADA: "Japan And The U.S."

The left-of-center Vancouver Sun (4/15) stated, "What the bolstered U.S.-Japan alliance acknowledges is that, for all the changes in the world since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1989, little has changed in Asia.... The United States remains the major military power and the potential flashpoints--Taiwan, the Korean armistice line, the South China Sea -- are the same. Japan is continuing to underwrite the U.S. presence as the only plausible counterweight to China. It is not an ideal arrangement, however; Japan's reliance on American protection leaves the United States and China staring each other down to decide which will be the dominant military power in asia. The top priority in the region is to find ways of defusing that confrontation."

"North Korea's Deterioration Behind Military Threats"

Former diplomat Harry Sterling held in the business-oriented Financial Post (4/16), "The United States cannot afford to let the current provocations destabilize the peninsula, since they could adversely affect other broader U.S. interests.... If its tactics to push the United States and other countries to contemplate dealing more directly with North Korea were to bear fruit, it would be a considerable accomplishment."

"North Korea's Extortion Bid"

Foreign affairs analyst Eric Margolis remarked in the conservative Ottawa Sun (4/15), "Knowing Clinton can't risk a second Korean war--or even a serious North Korean attack on U.S. forces near the DMZ--North Korea is gambling it will succeed in squeezing yet more aid from the United States. Pyongyang also has another key goal: driving a wedge between the United States and South Korea by intimidating Washington into opening full diplomatic relations. The North's long-term strategic goal remains getting U.S. troops out of South Korea and ending America's security commitment to Seoul. Pyongyang is playing a very dangerous game of brinkmanship...but as America's quick, decisive response to China's threats against Taiwan clearly showed, the Pentagon should not be trifled with."

CZECH REPUBLIC: "Tokyo Will Play a Bigger Part In Defending Asia"

U.S. affairs analyst Pavel Posusta wrote in Prague's right-of-center Mlada fronta DNES (4/16), "Japan is aware of growing U.S. criticism, especially on the part of Congress, that it is absurd that American troops defend the second-richest country in the world with U.S. taxpayers' money. Therefore, Premier Hashimoto wants to offer more money and forces to promote this mutual defense partnership. Hence, intensive talks between the United States and Japan, which followed the Okinawa incident could produce a more positive outcome than the last 20 years."

LATVIA: "Yankee, Go Home!"

Centrist Neatkariga Rita Avize (4/16) commented, "The United States, by promising to return the Futenma base, hopes to delay the campaign in Okinawa to reclaim the entire land by 2015. But this step may have far-reaching psychological effects as well. China's challenging military maneuvers near Taiwan, North Korea's sudden excursions to the demilitarized zone, and similar signs of instability in neighboring countries are good reason to seek means of relationships....

"On the one hand, an increased pace in downsizing American military presence can create slight confusion. It is still not altogether clear what kind of destabilizing effect something like the reunion of North and South Korea would have. The Japanese would not dare to openly endorse American presence in the region all the way up to Southeast Asia because it would offend Beijing.... So, it seems that this time the battle between the dollar and the yen, or in other words American and Japanese difficulties in balancing commercial interests, is taking second place."

MALTA: "New Tensions"

The English-language Times (4/12) opined, "Washington is divided over what prompted North Korea to rile new tensions with recent incursions in its buffer zone with the South, but experts say Pyongyang certainly has not advanced its aim of drawing closer to the United States. The Clinton administration also went out of its way to try to keep the lid on the situation.... One theory is that North Korea is trying to influence the South Korean elections. But there is no identifiably pro-North Korean candidate on the ballot, and it is hard to see what Pyongyang might gain as past aggressive moves have served to boost prospects for the South Korean party in power."

SOUTH ASIA

INDIA: "Clinton, Kim Propose Four-Party Talks"

Tokyo correspondent F.J. Khergamvala wrote in the independent Hindu (4/17), "The Clinton-Kim peace idea is not surprising.... This explains the U.S. unwillingness to be too harsh on North Korea after the incursions into the DMZ...but also might explain the incursions themselves. Possibly, the North was trying these controlled military measures to moderate the U.S.-South Korean proposal.... It seems wise that while the initiative came from Seoul the formal proposal carries the weight of the United States, whose attention North Korea covets and has indeed received.... North Korea will almost certainly act the coy bride and object to some points, especially...unconditionality and governmental representation but eventually if the price is right, literally, it can be brought to the table. Thence on the ball might roll."

"Clinton May Insist On Direct Talks For Korean Peace"

F.J. Khergamvala remarked in the Hindu (4/16), "The emphasis of the entire visit is on the U.S. military role in the Asia Pacific centered on the U.S.-Japan alliance.... The U.S. too has been acting with far greater circumspection on North Korea, knowing that despite the oft touted official statements out of Washington DC, Tokyo and Seoul, the real oger is not North Korea but China. Doubtless the U.S.-Japan alliance...also caters threats to South Korea but the principal purpose of the redefinition is to prepare for a more uncertain China. The message in Korea therefore may be one of peace, but peace through strength.... "Clinton will need to reassure South Korea of the U.S. strong commitment if only to catch the ears of the radical military in Pyongyang.... Behind the loud noises it is possible that Clinton might encourage a slow compromise which both sides...could work toward."

"Clinton, Hashimoto To Reaffirm Alliance"

F.J. Khergamvala held in the independent Hindu (4/15), "The red carpet is ready and so is the rug under which outstanding trade and services disputes have been brushed.... A joint declaration by Clinton and Japanese Prime Minister Hashimoto has the imprint of two leaders who seem to have upheld their reciprocal promises to take personal charge of removing obstacles to an expanded alliance while serving their respective domestic agenda(s).... The joint declaration is intended to convey the regional character of the alliance to convince constituencies in both countries as well as in the rest of East Asia that reduction in troop strength or redeployment is meant purely to address certain objections but will not entail a reduction in commitment or in capability.... For the time being, however, by putting away some inconvenient trade issues, both leaders are focused on their domestic political agenda in common measure."

MIDDLE EAST

OMAN:

"U.S. In A Bind"

The semi-independent, English-language Times of Oman (4/16) commented, "North Korea's mixed signals ahead of President Clinton's visit to South Korea today have left the West scratching its collective head.... Clinton will be searching for ways to retake the initiative during his summit with...Kim.... But unfortunately for Clinton, his hands are tied. First, he faces anti-Communist hawks in congress unwilling to offer any concessions to America's enemy in the Korean War.... Secondly, Clinton is constrained by the pace of dialogue between the two Koreas.... Kim may no longer be as sensitive to his domestic image, but it is questionable whether Pyongyang will ever deal with him--even if he was willing.... In the meantime, Clinton is in a bind: He needs to induce Pyongyang to stick to a 1994 accord to freeze its nuclear program, and compromise on other vital issues such as missile exports to the Middle East, but can offer few rewards in exchange."

AFRICA

SOUTH AFRICA: "Cold War Residue We Can Do Without"

Afrikaans, centrist Die Burger noted (4/17), "The still threatening conflict on the Korean peninsula is a residue of the Cold War we can do without.... The American secretary of defense, Mr. William Perry, said recently that his country would withdraw its troops from South Korea if the two Koreas reunite in peace.... If Mr. Perry's remarks are any indication of how the United States' mind works, it means the end of North Korea and that will not be acceptable by the Pyongyang dictatorship. If North Korea is formally recognized as a separate state, South Korea can again retaliate and President Clinton can expect opposition at home because he would have lengthened the life of a regime which is not far from collapsing." NNNN

Product Name:  Foreign Media Reaction
Product Code:  FM
Keywords:  STATE VISITS; JAPAN-US RELATIONS; KOREA (SOUTH)-US RELATIONS; CLINTON, BILL/Foreign Relations: East Asia & Pacific; NEWS MEDIA COMMENTARY; KOREA (NORTH); NEGOTIATIONS
Document Type:  EXC; RPT
Thematic Codes:  1EA
Target Areas:  AF; AR; EA; EU; NE
PDQ Text Link:  432965