Professor Christopher Hughes, who is Professor of International Politics and Japanese Studies at the University of Warwick, and was visiting RSIS as the NTUC Professor of International Economic Relations, spoke at a distinguished public lecture where he explored Japan’s complex relationship with the United States, examining its crucial role as a military and economic ally.
Despite this strong partnership, Japan shares the growing uncertainty felt by other US allies, and even some adversaries, regarding the Trump 2.0 administration. Professor Hughes analysed how the new US leadership might influence Japan’s grand strategy, particularly concerning the US-Japan alliance, trade policies, economic security, and military priorities. He also delved into Japan’s evolving diplomatic ties with key players in the Indo-Pacific region, including China, the Korean Peninsula, ASEAN, and other global partners.
Will Japan seek and be able to maintain its current pathway in grand strategy, or will it need to modify its strategy, or more radically undertake a course correction?
Watch the Distinguished Public Lecture here:
Professor Hughes was also a guest on In Conversation, where he spoke in depth about Japan’s changing military stance, its evolving alliances, and the broader implications of the US-Japan relationship on regional security and diplomacy.
Listen to the episode here:
More about the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) Professorship in International Economic Relations
In 2007, the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) raised a total of S$2.5 million, which, with additional funding from the Singapore Government and other sources, enabled RSIS to establish an endowed chair known as the NTUC Professorship in International Economic Relations.
