Tracking Number: 434125Title: "Asian Security: US Presence and Japan, China, Korea." (960424)
Date: 19960514Text:
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, DIRECTORWednesday, April 24, 1996
ASIAN SECURITY: U.S. PRESENCE AND JAPAN, CHINA, KOREA
Asia watchers in the foreign press continued to praise--albeit with reservations-- the U.S.-Japan declaration on security cooperation that emerged from last week's Tokyo summit but they also viewed with concern the possibility of enhanced Sino-Russian cooperation and fretted over the persistent and worrisome challenges posed by both China and North Korea.
Papers in Japan offered varied views on U.S.-Japan security cooperation. Conservative Sankei urged Tokyo to debate the constitutional ban on collective defense quickly, so as not to weaken the new accord with Washington. But liberal Asahi urged a more cautious approach, arguing, among other points, that the U.S. decision to return Okinawa's Futenma airfield was not significant enough to warrant a major concession from Japan in return. In Australia, the Philippines and Singapore, writers described Mr. Clinton's visit as "his most important excursion into Asia thus far" and welcomed the U.S.-Japan agreement as buying "precious time" for ASEAN to develop military and conflict-resolution initiatives. Beijing's official People's Daily signaled Chinese alarm over the U.S.-Japan declaration, claiming that it presents the U.S. and Japan as eventually "dominating the Asia-Pacific region." Manila's conservative Philippine Star was one of several papers to express reservations about increased Japanese involvement in regional security, recalling that "ugly memories die hard, and residual distrust of a larger military role for Japan is inevitable among Asian nations." It called the promise of continued U.S. presence in Asia "comforting."
Last Friday's meeting in The Hague between Secretary Christopher and Chinese Foreign Minister Qian Quichen also drew mixed responses. The pro-PRC Hong Kong Commercial Daily predicted that Sino-U.S. relations may now "become more stable." Pro-PRC Wen Wei Po, however, warned Washington to handle the Taiwan issue "carefully and properly," adding that "only if Sino-U.S. relations are normal will real security in the Asia Pacific region be guaranteed." Beijing's official China Daily warned that so long as Washington insisted on pursuing its policy of containment, Sino-U.S. relations would not return to the "healthy track of the 1980s." A Taiwanese daily, by contrast, lamented that after the ministerial talks it will be even harder for Taipei to play its "U.S. card" because Washington is eagerly seeking Beijing's cooperation on international issues. Analysts were fascinated by President Yeltsin's visit to Beijing. Most agreed with the observation of Jakarta's independent Kompas that Beijing wants to improve its position vis-a-vis the West by showing "the U.S. that it has a strong non-Western partner." Chinese media outlets used the defeat of a U.S.-sponsored resolution criticizing China's human rights practices by the UN Human Rights Commission to gloat about Western "double standards" and "pressure."
Commentators in South Korea and Singapore reiterated their anxiety about North Korea's attempts to bypass Seoul while firming up ties with the U.S. Seoul's moderate Hankook Ilbo brooded, "As North Korea continues to be mute about the proposed four-party talks, and U.S.-North Korea contacts are increasing, Seoul is left wondering what to do."
This report is based on 77 commentaries from 26 countries, April 22-24.
EDITORS: Rose Sue Berstein and Mildred Sola Neely
EAST ASIA AND PACIFIC
JAPAN: "Much Homework Must Be Done On Contingency Planning"
Liberal Ashai (4/24) editorialized, "The government and the Liberal Democratic Party have put forth new proposals for Japan-U.S. cooperation to deal with contingencies in the areas surrounding Japan.... But an important point is being missed in the present discussion on contingency response. It is not even clear what kind of situations could arise near Japan that would qualify as 'contingencies.' It is also a mistake to interpret the return of the Marine Corps air station Futenma in Okinawa by the United States as a rare U.S. concession that warrants giving the highest priority to satisfying its request."
"Dealing With Contingencies 'A Bit At A Time' Is Unacceptable"
Liberal Tokyo Shimbun (4/24) opined, "Heated discussions are being held over how to respond to contingencies in the area surrounding Japan. The government needs to discuss the matter in a calm manner, while gathering understanding and support from the public. We would like to warn the government not to revise the present U.S.-Japan defense cooperation guidelines 'a bit at a time.' A knotty problem over Japan's greater support for U.S. forces is the issue of collective defense, from which Japan is constitutionally forbidden. Prime Minister Hashimoto said it would be necessary to study what Japan can do to support the U.S. military under the present framework of the constitution and legal system.... We wonder whether the U.S. military will be satisfied with Japan's support within these constitutional and legal restrictions."
"Strengthening, Advancing U.S.-Japan Security Accord"
Conservative Sankei opined (4/23), "Prime Minister Hashimoto...should be more confident of his leadership with the substantial results of these important diplomatic engagements. We particularly welcome his strong leadership in establishing the U.S.-Japan agreement on the planned return of Futenma Airfield." Referring to Hashimoto's meetings with coalition and opposition party chiefs, the paper added, "As long as Hashimoto is dedicated to maintaining the coalition government, the strengthening and advancing of the U.S.-Japan security achieved by President Clinton and...Hashimoto may yet take a step backward, once again inviting U.S. distrust."
"Public Supports Futenma Return"
Business-oriented Nihon Keizai (4/23) published a poll showing that about 70 percent of respondents approved of the recent U.S.-Japan agreement to return Futenma Airfield on Okinawa.
CHINA: "Western Interference In Nations' Internal Affairs Must Stop"
Official dailies in Shanghai and the Beijing municipal Beijing Daily commented (4/24), "The failure of the West's anti-China proposal at the UNHRC demonstrates that attempts by Western countries, such as the United States, to interefere in the internal affairs of other countries under the pretext of human rights will only make these Western powers more isolated. China made its position clear on the subject of human rights long ago: that under no circumstances would it make political deals with Western countries, submit to their pressure, or accept their values or concept of human rights. Engaging in political confrontation on this issue will come to no avail. The practice by Western powers of using human rights to interfere in other countries' internal affairs must stop!" "Reason Must Rule U.S. Policy"
The English-language China Daily observed (4/24), "The United States is bent upon spreading its own brand of democracy to other countries through force. Many politicians, preoccupied with ideological prejudices and unable to come to terms with changing world politics, still tinge Sino-U.S. relations with the ideological thinking typical of the Cold War era. They are looking for new enemies.
"But the United States is unable to carry out an effective containment policy against China. It can find no allies and cannot afford the heavy political and economic burdens which would surely result from containment. Being unable to see clearly the role played China in the world, the United States will not give up its containment policy. It seems impossible then, that Sino-U.S. relations can in the near future return to the healthy track of the 1980s."
"Japanese Constitution Faces Test"
Zhang Guocheng wrote in the official, Communist Party People's Daily (4/23), "The 'Japan-U.S. security guarantee joint declaration,' claiming that the Japan-U.S. security guarantee system is the 'basis for peace and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.'..naturally arouses concern.... For these words seem to portray the United States and Japan together dominating the Asia-Pacific region. This kind of practice--intensifying bilateral security guarantee systems in order to dominate the regional situation--is indeed a practice left over from the Cold War.
"Japan's peace constitution...has enabled Japan to embark on the road to peaceful development. It is a limit (on Japan's power). Once this limit no longer exists, there will be reason to question how far Japan will continue on the road of so-called 'self-defense.' Revisions to the 'Japan-U.S. Defense Cooperation principles' put Japan's peace constitution to a severe test."
"Clinton Visits Japan, Bypasses Economic Issues"
Tokyo correspondent Yan Haifang wrote in the official, State Council Economic Daily (4/23), "The Japan-U.S. summit meeting unexpectedly avoided economic issues. However, making the two countries' political and military relations so conspicuous is a way for each to seek its own interests.... The United States wants to safeguard its interests in Asia by basing itself in Japan, and Japan wants to become a major political and military power by drawing closer to the United States. Such political cooperation will create conditions whereby the United States can further enter Asian markets and Japan can maintain its position in the U.S. market."
"Qian, Christopher Meet"
All official media highlighted the (4/10) meeting in The Hague between Secretary of State Christopher and Foreign Minister Qian Qichen. China Daily said (4/22), "The two senior officials stressed that in conducting dialogues between China and the United States, the two sides should have an exchange of views from a long-term and strategic perspective."
SOUTH KOREA: "No Other Option But To Push For Talks"
Conservative Segye Ilbo's editorial (4/24) stated, "North Korea's continuing silence about the four-party talks is making people uncomfortable.... Others are worried that Washington and Pyongyang may seek to reach agreement behind our back. "What we need most at this point is patience.... We need to build more public support for the proposed talks. Isn't the proposal increasingly being viewed positively in the international community? We should remind ourselves that to make any meaningful progress in South-North relations there is no other option except pushing for the talks."
"North Korea, U.S., Making Things Difficult For Seoul"
Segye Ilbo commented (4/24), "By moving quickly to hold preliminary meetings to the four-party talks, the United States and North Korea are making things difficult for South Korea. The core of the problem is that Seoul and Washington continue to have differences about who should have the lead in contacts with the North. Foreign Minister Gong Ro-myung made the ROK's position clear when he said on TV that preliminary contacts should be made first between the two Koreas. The trouble is that this ROK position is not being reflected in communications between Washington and Pyongyang."
"U.S. Tends To Be Easily Impressed By North"
Conservative Chosun Ilbo (4/24) believed that remarks by a North Korean trade official that the North is ready to start an "epoch-making" change in its economy policy should not be taken at face value "because in the past the North Koreans have made similar announcements without offering detailed plans.... The speech may have been carefully calculated to demonstrate will to open up as well as to invoke U.S. empathy. The problem is that the United States has a tendency to be easily impressed by the North."
"Unified Front Against U.S."
Chosun Ilbo remarked (4/24), "Although China and Russia have not completely returned to the close alliance of the past, the two countries enjoy a strong relationship, so much so that the two are now constructing a unified front against the United States."
"U.S.-North Korea Normalization"
Chosun Ilbo commented (4/23), "Through the talks on missiles, North Korea will try to get both economic and political gains. Politically, it will attempt to turn the talks into negotiations over a peace treaty. This prospect worries us, so some say that South Korea, too, should participate in the talks. Those who are concerned about this also warn that U.S.-North Korea dialogue can produce far different results from what we expect. The Geneva talks are a case in point, they add. The symbolism of the missile talks is one other reason we're watching. Starting here, U.S.-North Korea dialogue is going to multiply and move steadily to deal with various issues. In a way, the missile talks are halfway to the final destination of U.S.-North Korea normalization."
"What Can Seoul Do?"
Moderate Hankook Ilbo observed (4/23), "As North Korea continues to be mute about the proposed four-party talks, and U.S.-North Korea contacts are increasing, Seoul is left wondering what to do."
"Eliminate Scud Missiles Through Economic Aid"
Segye Ilbo (4/21) remarked, "U.S.-North Korea negotiations...in Berlin will be more than just missile talks. They will very likely turn into discussions of broad political issues. The question is whether Washington and Seoul will remain united during the talks. "Seen as a preliminary to the proposed four-party peace talks, the Berlin meetings may well shape the direction of the talks."
AUSTRALIA: "Clinton's Most Important Excursion Into Asia"
The national, conservative Australian's editorial observed (4/23), "President Clinton's visit to South Korea and Japan last week was his most important excursion into Asia thus far.... Mr. Clinton's latest trip, with its clear political purpose, focused message and relevant and reassuring symbolism, will do much to make up lost ground for Washington."
"Security Ties Are Really Unbalanced"
The Weekend Australian (4/20) reported, "Until they are prepared to bear more of the security burden themselves, the Japanese will continue to have to rely heavily on the U.S. to protect their security interests in East Asia."
"New Alliance Already Raises Doubts"
The liberal Sydney Morning Herald (4/20) said, "The U.S.-Japan security alliance has been radically recast to give Tokyo a big role alongside Washington in dealing with regional conflicts. This week's change has far-reaching implications for North Asia and Australia. Canberra and Washington for some time have been privately urging a more assertive and involved Japan in Asia. But will it happen? Washington believes it should. It sees Japan providing a valuable strategic counter to an increasingly unpredictable China, a check on the irrational maneuvers of Stalinist North Korea and an important backup for its armed forces.... The alliance is viewed by Washington as the cornerstone of the U.S.-Asia Pacific policy."
HONG KONG: "Limited, If Expanded Cooperation"
Center-right Sing Tao Daily News concluded (4/24), "Even if China and Russia consolidate their military cooperation, it will be limited. After all, the cooperation of China and Russia will enhance their bargaining power with the United States."
"Another Vital Achievement Of China's Peaceful Diplomacy"
Pro-PRC Wen Wei Po maintained (4/24), "The good-neighborly relations of China and Russia have entered into a new stage. It is another vital achievement of China's peaceful diplomacy, and it also deals a heavy blow to the hegemonic force who seeks to 'contain' China."
"With Foundation Reconfirmed, Ties Can Stabilize"
Pro-PRC Hong Kong Commercial Daily (4/22) held, "The result of the meeting in The Hague is that both sides (China and the U.S.) have clearly re-affirmed the foundation of their relations. Sino-U.S. relations may become more stable in a period of time."
"U.S. Should Treat Taiwan Issue 'Properly'"
Wen Wei Po (4/21) said, "The United States should handle the Taiwan issue carefully and properly. This is crucial for the normal development of Sino-U.S. relations.... The United States is concerned about the future security of the Asia Pacific Region. However, only if Sino-U.S. relations are normal will real security in the Asia Pacific region be guaranteed."
"Sino-U.S. Relations; The Sun Shines Again"
The independent Ming Pao Daily News (4/20) held, "While Sino-U.S. relations remained troubled, the rain consequent on Lee Teng-hui's visit to the United States has stopped, and the sun now shines again.... The meeting of the Chinese and American foreign ministers still makes a contribution."
INDONESIA: "Washington-Tokyo Agreement"
Nationalistic Merdeka commented (4/24), "A clause of the U.S.-Japan declaration states that the two countries agree to maintain a security pact.... Beijing feels that this maneuver by the United States is indirectly aimed at China.... Following on the heels of the Taiwan crisis, it is clear that the Washington-Tokyo agreement was reached with a possible takeover of Taiwan by China in mind.... A Washington-Tokyo alliance could trigger an arms race in the Asia-Pacific, encouraging other Asia-Pacific security 'alliances' to emerge. It is easy to understand Washington's latest maneuver. Clinton seeks to catch two birds with one stone: to reinforce the U.S. military commitment in the Asia-Pacific and gain an advantage for forthcoming presidential election."
"Yeltsin Visit To Beijing"
Leading, independent Kompas observed (4/24), "What are the advantages for China of behind-the-scenes talks with Russia? Beijing wants to show the United States that it has a strong non-Western partner. This is more important for China now that the United States has strengthened relations with Japan through Clinton's visit.... Yeltsin's visit to Beijing is seen as confidence building, particularly if talks produce a way for China to improve its position vis-a-vis the West."
"Will Japan And U.S. Manage Asia?"
Business-oriented Bisnis Indonesia (4/20) asserted, "Washington hopes to strengthen the importance of the Washington-Tokyo alliance to Asia-Pacific stability. However, for Japan to expand its international military role would be dramatic.... It would be simple for Japan to become a military power. The problem, however, is that Japan cannot change its constitution without heeding the reaction of neighboring countries.... The absence of a strong Washington-Tokyo alliance would allow another ambitious power to emerge. Yet to allow this alliance to dictate Asia-Pacific development cannot be tolerated. Washington wants Tokyo to share the burdens of Asian security, particularly the Taiwan-China and Korean peninsula conflicts, and to curb Chinese expansion."
MALAYSIA: "Qian-Christopher Talks See No Breakthrough"
Government-influenced, Chinese-language Nanyang Siang Pau (4/20) held, "No breakthrough can be expected from the talks (between U.S. and Chinese foreign ministers) that will bring progress in their bilateral relations.... Many nations would like to see China and the United States move along to ease their relations. But, President Clinton's recent visit to East Asia has in effect concluded a U.S.-Japan axis.... This arrangement may be viewed as a pillar for stability. Nonetheless, it may also bring about instability to the Asian-Pacific region....especially if Boris Yeltsin's visit to China catalyzes the emergence of enhanced Sino-Russian ties. This will lead to the re-emergence of bipolar confrontations in Asia or even around the world. This is definitely not a blessing for the world."
PHILIPPINES: "U.S.-Japan Security Arrangements"
The conservative Philippine Star (4/24) opined concerning the joint U.S.-Japan security declaration, "What Asian nations are watching is how the Japanese intend to carry out their end of the bargain--a commitment to consider a military role beyond their borders, five decades after their military adventurism ended in defeat.... Ugly memories die hard, and residual distrust or a larger military role for Japan is inevitable among Asian nations.... Other Asian nations can only hope that, this time, Japan will use its leadership for lasting peace.... While we do not expect the Panganiban (Spratlys) problem to disappear with the historic U.S.-Japanese agreement, America's continued presence in the region, fully supported by the Japanese, who are today the leading economic supporters of the Philippines, is comforting."
"U.S.-Japan Accord Buys Precious Time For ASEAN"
Veteran journalist and columnist Amando Doronila wrote in the anti-administration and second-largest circulation Philippine Daily Inquirer (4/23), "During his visit to Japan last week, President Clinton made the commitment that the United States was in Asia for as long as it was wanted.... The U.S. reassurance came as Southeast Asian nations exhibited nervousness over Beijing's more aggressive demonstration of its growing naval power. The new security agreement strengthens the U.S.-Japan military and economic partnership (and) envisages an expanded security role for Japan in the region. The significance of this alliance to the Philippines and the rest of ASEAN is that it buys precious time for them to, first, build up their armed forces, and secondly, evolve a conflict-solving mechanism, with initiatives from ASEAN or powers external to the region."
SINGAPORE: "Normalization Of U.S.-China Ties A Big Achievement"
Pro-government, Chinese-language Lianhe Zaobao said in an editorial (4/24) about the Christopher-Qian meeting, "From the long-term point of view...the normalization of U.S.-China relations is, by itself, a big achievement. At the height of the Taiwan tension when China and the United States were almost in a stage of military confrontation, the sudden announcement of bilateral talks between the two men in Europe not only eased the tension but also reduced the anxiety of Asian nations.
"Meanwhile, a factor that cannot be overlooked is the renewed tension on the Korean peninsula. The Korean tension, however, may become an important driving force in the normalization of China-U.S. relations. It will gradually act as a 'glue' in U.S.-China relations and, for a period of time, compel the United States to take China into account when implementing its Asia policy."
"U.S.-Japan--Preserving Regional Peace"
An editorial in the pro-government Business Times held (4/23), "The so-called Alliance for the 21st Century concluded last week in Tokyo between...Clinton and...Hashimoto represents a triumph of American diplomacy and a symbol of Japan's developing postwar maturity.... A strengthened U.S.-Japan alliance should therefore contribute to preserving peace in this region."
"No Direct Deal"
According to an editorial in the pro-government Straits Times (4/23), "The question is, how might Pyongyang turn what is a bad hand into a winner?... "Within a week of Mr. Clinton's call, the North had shown its hand. It is reported to be seeking direct talks with the United States. Stated purpose: to improve bilateral ties. True intent: to maneuver the Americans into lifting economic sanctions and opening a liaison office in Pyongyang post-haste. This should be seen in concert with the weekend talks in Berlin at which the North discussed missile sales control with the Americans in hopes of an easing of sanctions. Furthermore, word from South Korean opposition leader Kim Dae Jung has it that Washington and Pyongyang will exchange liaison offices by September or October.
"If true, the South may be close to being check-mated.... One must assume that the United States treats every Pyongyang move as double-dealing until proved otherwise. What it must not do, in its anxiety to end the stalemate in the Korean peninsula, is to be outflanked. That means no direct deal."
"U.S. Lacks Strategy On China"
Chief regional correspondent Lee Kim Chew wrote in the Straits Times (4/20), "In a way, the lack of strategy explains why Sino-U.S. ties are beset by endless troubles over human rights, democratic values and more recently, Taiwan.... The Clinton administration appears to spend precious little time thinking about the relationship. Its China policy is, in fact, driven by domestic politics.... Clearly, a containment policy will not serve America's interests, and unless the two countries work to close the perception gap, the mistrust and misunderstanding will get worse.... With Taiwan pushing aggressively to gain international stature, Washington needs to be steadfast in its one-China policy and take steps to improve ties with Beijing. Likewise, Beijing has to act responsibly. Both sides need to take corrective measures to restate the ground rules and put the relationship back on track."
TAIWAN: "Political Structure For East Asia Emerges"
The Christopher-Qian talks sparked this editorial in the establishment China Times (4/21): "The basic political structure for East Asia has gradually emerged in the Christopher-Qian talks and the earlier U.S.-Japan summit.... Whether Washington-Beijing ties will be improved with the holding of the Christopher-Qian talks still remains to be seen. Wrestling will still appear on many issues especially in the three sides of the triangular relationship among Washington, Beijing and Taipei.... However, it is a consensus generally acknowledged by both Washington and Beijing that under the premise of Asian-Pacific order, the United States is willing to cooperate with Communist China to maintain stability in the Asia-Pacific region....
"As for the United States, although Washington does not want to see tension rise again in the Taiwan Strait, nor is it happy to see Taiwan push too hard on its diplomatic relations, which will affect stability in the Western Pacific. Pushing hard for diplomatic relations, like military expansion, will bring damage to the status quo, which is not what Washington wants to see. This explains why Washington had Perry demonstrate the United States' determination to maintain peace on one hand and had Christopher reiterate the U.S. position to conform to a one-China principle on the other hand. This is the reality that Taiwan has to face."
"Harder For Taiwan To Use U.S. Card"
Vancouver correspondent Hsu Li-ling filed for the establishment Commercial Times (4/22), "Washington does not want to get involved in sovereignty disputes between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.... "Although we did not see any harm done to Taiwan's interests in The Hague meeting, it surely will be even harder for Taiwan to use the United States to pressure Beijing now."
THAILAND: "We're Still Worried"
Kavi Chongkittavorn commented in the independent Nation (4/22), "While the U.S.-Japan joint declaration last week reaffirmed the American commitment to peace and security in Asia, the perceived expansion of Japan's military role is still a cause for concern for many countries in the region.... (While) countries in ASEAN realize the importance of a continued U.S. presence...(and) appreciate the strong U.S.-Japan security alliance, they do not want to see a Japan that potentially can become a military power, even under the U.S. umbrella...
It was all right for U.S. Pacific Commander Adm. Joseph Prueher to tell the press in Bangkok last week that Japan has no territorial aspirations in the region and that its military is limited to a self-defense role by its 1946 constitution. That much was clear from the U.S. side, but within the region such a message does not get through.... If Japan's growing military role toward the region is thoroughly discussed with ASEAN members through the Post-Ministerial Meeting or the Asean Regional Forum (ARF) process, it will create better understanding and subsequent support among the Southeast Asian countries."
"Viable Plan For Peace On Korean Peninsula"
The top-circulation pro-government Bangkok Post (4/22) asserted that the new proposal for four-party Korean peace talks made by Seoul and Washington "deserves serious attention from Pyongyang.... By maintaining its bellicose stance, North Korea has remained stuck in a self-defeating time warp. South Korea has reached out to the world, and found new friends around the globe.... The nation has flourished economically, and has embraced democracy. The contrast in the quality of life and standard of living between North and South Koreans is stark.... Apparent North Korean leader Kim Jong-il...should give serious consideration to the new plan for peace talks. Presidents Kim and Clinton have presented him what may be North Korea's last chance to show it supports--as the regime often says--the prospect for peace on the peninsula."
"Japan Must Cooperate More With Its Asian Neighbors"
The Bangkok Post (4/21) commented, "A security declaration issued by U.S. President Bill Clinton and Japanese Prime Minister Ryutaro Hashimoto in Tokyo on April 17 may mark a new chapter in the post-war history of Japan. But a greater task lies ahead for Tokyo to continue its commitment to live as a nation of peace in the international community.... In the eyes of some military analysts, the Clinton administration has sought cooperation of Japan's military in a new but small NATO-type alliance. This certainly will not be welcomed by Beijing, especially when it begins to see the U.S.-Japan alliance as fundamentally anti-Chinese. What the Hashimoto government needs to do is to clearly state Japan's position to its Asian neighbors."
VIETNAM: "U.S.-Japan Alliance Upgraded"
Army Quan Doi Nhan Dan (4/19) remarked on President Clinton's visit to Japan, "The substance of the U.S.-Japan joint declaration on security is in guaranteeing the U.S. military presence in Asia and the Pacific, involving Japan in still stronger commitments to the U.S. security policy and having Japan assume a bigger defense role in the region.... Politically and psychologically, the U.S.-Japan security treaty is of special importance, because, with regard to the United States, this treaty has made the United States stronger beyond its borders." SOUTH ASIA
INDIA: "Back To Containment"
The independent Times of India (4/20) held, "Slowly but surely, the United States seems to be erecting the scaffolding of a new containment policy--only this time the object of the exercise is not Communism or even Islamic 'fundamentalism,' but China. As the future contours of big power rivalry become more apparent, the United States has begun to take measures aimed at building a diplomatic, military and economic cordon sanitaire of sorts around Beijing. Of course, its efforts have been partially compromised by the huge investments U.S. companies have made in the Chinese economy and by the fact that other Asian countries do not necessarily think isolating or pressuring China is the best way of dealing with it....
"If Washington and Tokyo have now been able to sell their latest agreement to the Japanese people, credit mainly belongs to the skillfully orchestrated 'stand-off' between U.S. warships and Chinese forces in the Taiwan straits last month.... By staging a finely calibrated show of force, the United States was able to focus attention on the potential dangers Chinese assertiveness holds for the rest of East Asia....
"While...Hashimoto...took pains to emphasis that the recent U.S.-Japan agreement is not directed against China, it is significant that the U.S. side has been circumspect about clarifying the same.... While the world treats it as a full-fledged military superpower, Beijing feels it has some way to go before it can confidently assert itself on the world stage. In the long-run, however, tensions between the United States and China are bound to escalate. All those countries, including Japan, feeling comforted by the U.S. military presence in Asia will find that getting embroiled in big power rivalries can have dangerous consequences."
"U.S.-Japan Cooperation"
Bangalore's left-of-center Deccan Herald (4/19) held, "The joint declaration signed by Clinton and the Japanese prime minister reaffirms cooperation between the two countries on security matters and continuing American commitment to the Asia Pacific region.... The continuing presence of American troops in East Asia has...been welcomed by the U.S.'s allies in the region. The recent tension in the Taiwan Strait and the Korean peninsula have reinforced their fears of threats from China and North Korea and also underscored their continued dependence on the American security umbrella.
"However, while American military presence in the region has increased their confidence, it has to a considerable extent provoked China and North Korea to adopt aggressive postures. Consequently, rather than depend on American deployment of troops, the East Asian countries should work on confidence-building measures and develop adequate conflict resolution mechanisms within the region itself. This will not only reduce tension in the region but will also be welcomed by the people."
"Uncle Samurai"
Calcutta's independent Telegraph (4/19) opined, "Bill Clinton has belatedly remembered that security has been the cornerstone of U.S.-Japan relations. The recent summit...is notable for its focus on refurbishing Asia's most important bilateral security alliance.... Japan-bashing is unfashionable in Washington these days....
"Other Asian countries will ask if a revitalized U.S.-Japan alliance is anything to be happy about. The answer is probably yes. There is nothing more dangerous than a world in which the key powers are not knitted into the fabric of a consensual international order.... Until the dust settles on a recognizable new world order, stress should be placed on maintaining the structures that provided stability to the world in the past five decades. In Asia this has meant groupings like the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, and the United States's links with South Korea, Taiwan and Japan. No doubt these bodies are evolving new shapes and colors. However, Clinton's original policy of dumping security and putting export promotion schemes in their places was to pile confrontation on to instability. With this week's summit, the United States sends a message that in a time of funny money, old is gold".
IRAN: "Why Clinton's Trip To Japan Was Significant"
Official, Persian-language Abrar declared in a commentary by M. Mollazehi (4/18), "The U.S. president's visit to Japan was particularly significant. During this visit the two sides stressed the need for greater cooperation between the United States and Japan to safeguard peace in the Far East. The United States, however, expects Japan to contribute more to the cost of maintaining regional security....
"At the same time, it should be noted that Japan is aware of possible sensitivities by the East Asian countries, which have unpleasant memories of the military period of Japan's empire. Japan does not want its ever-increasing trade and economic ties with East Asia to be influenced by such security issues. There is no unity of view (in Japan) that the security issues are in Japan's national interest....
"The fast and continued growth of China's economy and the complex of ASEAN, together with a dangerous level of balance of payments which the United States owes to Japan, created some concern in Washington that closeness between Japan and China will endanger the U.S. political, trade and military position in East Asia. And the United States will not be able to maintain the high position it has enjoyed so far in this part of the world. Changes in internationl power criteria from military to economic have put American technology in a weaker position and have made it difficult (for the Americans) to benefit from military power in order to guarantee its monopolistic trade and economic interests.
"The reason Clinton's visit has been given such a high profile, similar to that of Nixon in 1972 to East Asia is that Nixon's visit was successful...and caused China to express the same views as the United States on most world issues. The question remains whether Clinton, making a similar move, will be able to create new security measures in East Asia in which the United States, by accepting minimum cost, can earn maximum interest. Apparently regional developments in East Asia are not such that optimistic expectations will be justified."
BANGLADESH: "U.S.-Japan Alliance"
The privately-owned Independent (4/20) opined, "Skeptics within the United States suggest that both President Bill Clinton and Prime Minister Ryutaro Hashimoto are overstating the significance of the pact, albeit to calm Pacific security jitters, to capitalize on it politically. They particularly doubt the scope of Japanese military backing of U.S. global operations and the value of Japanese overt involvement with the United States in Asian conflicts. Constitutional hurdles to Japan's participation in military conflicts abroad remain insurmountable in the current political climate of that country. Okinawa resentment of continuing U.S. military presence is as bitter as ever. "The renewed treaty may have simply served to divert attention from the difficulties in U.S.-Japan relations (posed by) trade-related issues.... In Asia, on the other hand, while the Philippines welcomed the extended U.S.-Japan Security Alliance wholeheartedly, other Asian nations including South Korea were unenthusiastic about Japanese military resurgence in the Asian scene. There is a fine line of Asian sensitivity there for U.S. strategists to tread on."
EUROPE
GERMANY: "False Modesty"
Peter Sturm remarked in centrist Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (4/22), Europe's politicians are rushing from summit to summit . Those in power in Asia are being assured that they are partners of Europe. The most important argument for the increased attention is the fast economic growth that exists in most of the countries. Even the less well-informed EU countries are now aware of the term 'Tiger countries.'... The only real independent foreign political players in Asia are the Americans. Washington is not only economically, but also politically present. Many countries who were not long ago heavily critical of U.S. activities in the region are now, having observed China's continuing rearmament, changing their opinions.
"Europe runs the risk of missing the chance to take advantage of the economic development in the region. In particular the lack of a unified front in the search for new markets does not help the European cause. Individual companies from different countries are often competing against one another, and in Germany's case ambitious states are also often competing against each other.... However, Europe has not yet lost the economic or political race taking place in Asia. In spite of its difficulties and poor past record it is currently regrouping itself for a new attempt, and with its economic weight and political influence at risk, why should it give up?"
RUSSIA: "Beijing May Ignore What U.S. Has To Say On Hong Kong"
Ivan Shomov remarked (4/24) in reformist Segodnya (4/24), "Beijing has of late been inclined to believe that the planet will become a very dangerous place to be, if ruled by a single state. So it may ignore what Washington has to say on Hong Kong's future."
BELGIUM: "U.S., Japan Know Who Will Be The Enemy"
Flemish nationalist weekly 't Pallieterke (4/24) observed, "That new treaty (between Washington and Tokyo)...means also that, as things stand now, the United States considers Japan to be the only nation capable of playing the role of an equal and competent partner. That alliance can only be directed against China--although both Clinton and Hashimoto avoided all reference to China. It also means that they think that they already know who will be the enemy in the 21st century."
CANADA: "Drawing Beijing Into Asia's New Era"
International affairs columnist Gordon Barthos wrote in the liberal Toronto Star (4/19), "Clinton went out his way to woo China's leadership.... That's good news for the Chinese, and everyone else.... The offer from America is clear: China can take its place as Asia's leading power, and enjoy preferential relations with the West, by playing a more constructive role than in the past, by pressing forward with market reforms, and by honoring human rights. "Beijing need be concerned about America's strengthened military ties only if it behaves as the prickly loner and sometime bully.... Clinton's signals were a welcome reminder to China's emerging leaders that their interests lie in being team players in Asian diplomacy and development, not chippy outsiders."
CZECH REPUBLIC: "Tokyo And Washington In The Same Boat"
Left-of-center Prace (4/22) held, "During his trip to Japan, President Clinton got his own way. He did not succeed only at calming down anti-American sentiments in Japan; he and the Japanese premier also signed a declaration on military cooperation in the region.... Washington has come to realize that the American presence and influence in the Pacific would be inconceivable without Japan. Tokyo, on the other hand, considers cooperation with the United States a counterbalance to China's growing economic and military influence.... Clinton's trip to Asia has also given an impetus to better relations among countries in that part of the world. The ASEAN countries welcome continuing American presence; North Korea seems to be willing to participate in the quadripartite talks on the situation on the Korean peninsula; China has indicated that it is ready to normalize relations with the United States In all these aspects, the United States and Japan are in the same boat which seems to have taken the right course."
MALTA: "Bumpy Ride To Chinese Rule"
The independent English-language Times (4/23) opined, "Hong Kong faces a bumpy ride to Chinese rule next year as a result of jolts to public confidence in the transition process and growing unrest. The outlook was growing gloomier because of quarrels between Britain and China.... China takes a very different view of the political outlook for Hong Kong. It has depicted its exercise to tap the views of grassroots bodies and individuals on the formation of the post-colonial government as a great success."
POLAND: "Will Russia Arm China?"
Moscow correspondent Krzysztof Pilawski wrote in leftist Trybuna (4/24), "Beijing is greedily looking at Russia's modern aircraft, tanks, rockets, and submarines. Moscow, on the other hand, is hardly resisting the temptation to take advantage of the circumstances, since this huge market is a dream come true for the Russian arms industry.... There is still no answer in Moscow to the question of what is China to be for Russia--a strategic partner, or something to fear.... Before his trip to China, Yeltsin stated that he is interested in closer cooperation with China, and not in new, allied relations."
SLOVENIA: "Dangerous Banking On Diplomacy"
Barbara Surk remarked in left-of-center Republika (4/23), "His visit should persuade Americans not only that he has...finally passed the gap between the mentality of an Arkansas governor...and that of a world power president, but also that Washington's foreign policy activity is important in strengthening 'American security, economic, and political interests.'... Clinton's comeback on the global stage was very ambitious and persuasive.... His support for American involvement in global issues--as opposed to Dole's advocating the policy of isolationism and self-sufficiency--is positive and effective to some extent. But the present crisis in the Middle East...could serve as an example of how glittering the gloss of foreign political achievements can be, but how dangerous it is to sell (these achievements) on the political market before the efforts have ripened into victory." SPAIN: "Yeltsin Seeks Nuclear Pact In Beijing"
Juan Circo wrote from Beijing in conservative ABC (4/24), "China's military dependence on Russia is growing each day...and the sale of Russian arms to China is one of the most important sides of the relations between these two countries. The visit shows Russia's priority to strengthen the Asian front against a possible expansion of NATO."
LATIN AMERICA AND CARIBBEAN
BRAZIL: "Washington, Beijing Reach Understanding"
Center-right O Estado de San Paulo (4/22) said the Christopher-Quian Quichen meeting was "the beginning of a new approach..... The most pressing point in the Sino-American dialogue is an issue that serves as a constant barometer of the relations between Beijing and Washington: the ties between China's human rights problems and trade. Here too Christopher's tone was conciliatory.
"The Secretary of State confirmed Clinton's intention to defend before Congress the renewal of (China's) Most Favored Nation status. The American government, therefore, is maintaining a commitment to disengaging its human rights policy from trade, essential for a good relationship with China. The United States is exercising pragmatism in a very competitive scenario. Trade relations between the United States and China stumble not only upon human rights policy, but also on Chinese trade practices, i.e. on disrespect for copyright and patent laws and on the supply of nuclear components to Pakistan."
CHILE: "Peace In Korea"
Influential, conservative El Mercurio (4/22) opined, "At the beginning of his visit to Asia and Russia, President Clinton, together with South Korean president Kim Young-sam, offered peace negotiations to North Korea and China to end officially the 1950-1953 war and reduce tensions within the peninsula.... North Korea's acceptance of four-party talks constitutes a gratifying surprise. Previously, Pyongyang had insisted on bilateral talks with the United States, apparently to divide Washington and Seoul, as (bilateral talks) would be an annoyance for South Korea. It would seem that the North's urgent need for international investment and assistance to survive has prevailed for now. One cannot expect either a rapid beginning or conclusion to these talks, but it is an encouraging breakthrough that they will occur."
AFRICA
NIGERIA: "Saber-Rattling In The Korean Peninsula"
The independent A. M. News (4/20) opined, "The North Koreans have made it abundantly clear that they broke the rule deliberately because the South Koreans have allegedly broken just about two-thirds of the articles of the armistice agreement of 1953. A. M. News can only hope that good sense will prevail and that the Military Armistice Commission under the auspices of the UN will step in and prevent a re-enactment of the Korean War of 45 years ago. We believe that the United States has a responsibility to stop all joint military exercises in the region to assuage North Korean fears about an imminent invasion of her territory once North Korea pulls her troops out of the DMZ and agrees to full inspection of her nuclear facilities as agreed in 1994. We believe that this is the time when diplomacy rather than crude power play can douse the threat of war."
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Product Name: Foreign Media Reaction
Product Code: FM
Keywords: NEWS MEDIA COMMENTARY; JAPAN-US RELATIONS; CHINA-US RELATIONS; KOREA (SOUTH)-US RELATIONS; KOREA (NORTH)-US RELATIONS; SECURITY ARRANGEMENTS; TAIWAN-US RELATIONS
Document Type: EXC; RPT
Thematic Codes: 1EA
Target Areas: AF; AR; EA; EU; NE
PDQ Text Link: 434125
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