JAPAN : Toeing Washington’s Gulf Line Doesn’t Make Us an Equal Partner

This is the debut of a new Opinion feature--excerpts of editorials and commentary from around the Pacific Rim.

The Japanese government has decided to make an additional aid contribution of $1 billion to the U.S.-led multinational forces deployed in the Persian Gulf area, and $2 billion in economic assistance to Egypt, Turkey and Jordan.

The question of additional financial commitment to the multinational forces poses problems. If Tokyo gives the impression it is merely passing out money freely and without principle, the Japanese could become the object of worldwide contempt. In this respect, we wonder whether the latest decision, except for having helped appease congressional sentiments in Washington, is convincing to the rest of the world. And we wonder whether Japanese taxpayers have been supplied with a sufficient explanation.

When such a state of affairs is considered, one can understand why words to the effect that “Tokyo is toeing Washington’s line� were expressed by some in the Japanese Cabinet.

It goes without saying that maintaining cordialities (with the United States) constitute a pillar of Japanese diplomacy. Toward that end, constant effort is required and, in times of emergency, it is important for Japan to be America’s “reliable partner.� At the same time, however, Japan needs to be Washington’s “equal partner.�