Transformation of Japanese Foreign Policy in the Xxi Century – Response to the Changes in the Architecture of Global and Regional Relations

The article analyzes the political concepts of Japanese prime ministers, starting with the pro-American policy of Junichiro Koizumi, whose actions contributed to Japan's participation in anti-terrorist operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, and also led to complications in relations with China and South Korea. Shinzo Abe strengthened the Japan-US alliance and placed great emphasis on Asian strategic diplomacy; Yasuo Fukuda paid special attention to integration in the Pacific region; Taro Aso conducted value-oriented diplomacy; Yukio Hatoyama proposed the idea of "fraternal political philosophy" based on cooperation and multipolarity; Naoto Kan and Yoshihiko Noda continued the policy of strengthening the alliance with the US and balancing relations with regional actors. Shinzo Abe's second term was marked by Japan's aspiration to revive as a leading world power and a review of the pacifist articles of the constitution. The national security strategy of Suga Yoshihide was characterized by strengthening ties with the US and a focus on environmental issues. The current Prime Minister, Kishida Fumio, continues this line, however, he faces new challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic and tectonic shifts in global geopolitics. Despite changes in political concepts, Japan's foreign policy maintains stability, especially in terms of the alliance with the US, relations with China, and attention to Central Asia and Kazakhstan. Japan remains an important and stable partner for the countries of Central Asia, striving to strengthen trade and economic ties and responding to new global and regional challenges.