Backgrounder:Japanese-American ties

Source: CCTV.com | 04-26-2007 12:21

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is now heading for Washington for his first official visit to US since taking office last September. Analysts say the strong alliance between the two countries will take center stage in public. But there tensions may also lurk backstage.

Last month, Shinzo Abe denied that Japan forced women to work as sex slaves during World War II.

His remarks triggered a new furor in neighboring countries.

Under fire, Abe offered an apology but did not clearly acknowledge Japan's responsibility.

The perception that Abe was trying to whitewash the wartime past lingered in Washington, where lawmakers called for an unambiguous apology.

Analysts say, the "comfort women" issue did not directly affect the Japanese-American relationship, but it did create some fissures.

Gao Hong, research fellow Chinese academy of social sciences, said, "Though it shares common strategic interests with Japan, the United States does not wish to see Japan take a wrong attitude towards history, which indirectly negates America's post-war strategy and its leading status in the world."

Though he has managed to improve relations with Asian neighbors and Europe in the past few months, Abe knows that Japan's most important foreign relationship remains that with America.

In July, Japan will hold nationwide parliamentary elections. They are widely regarded as a fresh test for the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, and the incumbent Prime Minister.

After Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao's "ice-melting journey" to Japan, Abe's support has risen. Abe knows it's time to visit an old friend.

Gao Hong said, "Through making economic and diplomatic achievements, a politician can win grassroots' support. But the economic results take time, so diplomacy can be more effective. So if Abe succeeds in strengthening the alliance, he might be stronger at home."

Abe has met Bush before but the two have not had a chance to forge a close personal ties. But analysts say that won't be an obstacle. The two leaders are expected to strengthen the alliance during these two days.

Editor:Du Xiaodan