Tokyo’s approach to Washington will be dual

Significance Tokyo is pursuing a dual strategy ahead of the US election in November: to deepen Japan's ties with the Biden administration, while also keeping open channels with Trump and seeking to shape perceptions of Japan as an ally that can help “Make America Great Again”. Impacts Japan will likely further postpone action on issues sensitive to the US presidential election. Initiatives such as the modernisation of the Japanese and US militaries’ command and control (C2) structures will advance more rapidly. Tokyo will continue to speak unofficially with Trump and his aides, as well as identify who may serve in top Asia-related government roles.